Known as one of the most caring and considerate personality types, the ISFJ is driven by their desire to provide for and protect others. As their nickname is fittingly The Defender, people with ISFJ personality traits are loyal friends and partners and reliable workers committed to traditional values. They are also compassionate, practical, and focused on fulfilling their duties.
Luckily, there are many ISFJs in the world (they make around 13% of the US population), and they work hard to create a better life for everyone. However, people, regardless of personality type, are extremely nuanced.
If you’re wondering how to spot an ISFJ or how to better communicate with them, you are not alone.
To make things a bit easier and clearer, we compared The Defender and the other personalities and highlighted their similarities and differences. Once you read this article, you should have a better understanding of the ISFJ personality type and their views of the world.
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How to Spot an ISFJ
The Defender type is governed by Introversion, Sensing, Feeling, and Judging preferences, meaning they derive their energy from spending time alone, are oriented to concrete details, use feelings and values to make decisions, and love structure and organization.
In terms of ISFJ career choices, you’ll usually find people with this personality type in lines of work such as (but not limited to) social work, medicine, or academics.
In a room full of people, the ISFJ will be the one introvert who is skilled at making small talk (they have strong social skills). Also, ISFJs are skilled at observing their environment and are rooted in the here and now (unlike their INFJ counterparts, who are more focused on the big picture).
Other characteristics that are usually attributed to The Defender personality type are:
- Meticulous to the point of perfectionism
- Highly reliable and tend to take their responsibilities personally
- Great at remembering even the smallest details
- Deeply values relationships with family and close friends
- Prefers security and structure over adventure and uncertainty
- Highly uncomfortable with change and chaos
To get a more detailed view of their defining personality traits, make sure to read our guide on ISFJ Personality Traits.
How Do ISFJs Compare to Other Personality Types?
Before we jump to comparing ISFJs and the other personality types, it’s important to highlight the fact that different personalities perceive and interpret the world through the lens of their unique preferences and cognitive functions.
In terms of preferences, ISFJs prefer Introversion, Sensing, Feeling, and Judging. In addition, their dominant cognitive function is Introverted Sensing, while their auxiliary function is Extraverted Feeling. If you want to know more about the ISFJ cognitive function stack, check our article here.
As you will see, each of the 16 personality types has a different set of preferences and a different cognitive stack. These are characteristics that make them unique and set them apart in the 16 personalities system. There are also similarities between specific groups, which is why we thought the best way to describe the ISFJ personality type is to compare it with each of the other 15 personalities.
ISFJ vs SJ Temperament Types
The SJ Temperament types (ISTJ, ESTJ, ESFJ, and ISFJ) share the Sensing (S) and Judging (J) preferences. This means that the individuals with this temperament are grounded in reality, with deep roots in tradition. They treasure family and close friends (of which they only have a few) and are agile strategists and planners who need structure and stability to thrive.
Whether introverted or extroverted, the SJ Temperament types (or the Pragmatists) are meticulous and detail-oriented; they like to finish what they have started. Their work ethic is strict, and they like to keep focused on the present rather than envisioning the future. Also, these personality types may take life a bit too seriously, which can lead to them feeling unsatisfied or overwhelmed.
ISFJ vs ISTJ
The ISTJ personality type (also known as The Examiner) is the other Introverted Sensing type of the group (ISFJ is the other one). This makes Introverted Sensing (Si) their dominant cognitive function, which means the ISTJ personality type is well-grounded in the present but has a tendency to value traditions and past experiences.
ISTJs value integrity and have a rather black-and-white view of life. They are loyal and reliable, appreciative of clearly defined terms, and are methodical in their pursuit of happiness. Furthermore, they expect the same level of integrity and dutiful commitment from others, sometimes failing to remember that humans are not perfect beings.
The ISFJ personality type is detail-oriented with a keen sense of right and wrong and strong social skills (in spite of their Introversion). Their main purpose is to be of service to others, but they share the ISTJs’s sense of duty and responsibility. However, ISFJs are more likely to act on what they believe is right, based on their previously collected information and experiences, rather than basing their decisions on social expectations or norms like an ISTJ might.
Overall, the main difference between ISFJs and ISTJs is in the way they judge the world around them. ISTJs tend to use logic and facts to solve issues and form opinions, due to their Te (Extraverted Thinking) auxiliary function. In contrast, ISFJs have Fe (Extraverted Feeling) as an auxiliary function, which is why they will make judgments and decisions using their emotions and core values.
To get along, it’s important for ISTJs to be considerate of ISFJs’ feelings when sharing feedback, while ISFJs can learn from their ISTJ counterparts to address issues more rationally.
ISFJ vs ESTJ
The ESTJ personality type, or The Overseer, describes people with strong social skills who value tradition and order. Moreover, they are firm, opinionated, and respectful of tradition and order. ESTJs are quite strong-willed, but they often use this dedication and power to bring communities together.
Most people with ESTJ characteristics have type-A personalities, which means they can be demanding in their insistence on step-by-step organization and can get easily frustrated when things don’t go according to plan. However, if you move past their assertiveness and impatience, you can appreciate that their opinions and advice are based on real-life facts. The ESTJ personality type is often the community leader or organizer who gets things done, regardless of how difficult the path!
On the other hand, ISFJs are quiet and humble, and they keep their opinions to themselves (unless pressed to do otherwise). They don’t like the spotlight and prefer to work diligently from the shadows. In addition, the ISFJ personality type doesn’t take harsh criticism well and doesn’t feel comfortable in environments without visible structure and order.
Compared with ESTJs, The Defender personality seems reserved. In fact, people with ISFJ characteristics may feel intimidated by their ESTJ counterparts, who like things done their way and within their timeframe. Even though both types are Sensing and Judging personalities, it’s clear they are quite different – ISFJs are empathetic and reserved, while ESTJs are logical and outgoing. Therefore, a relationship between the two may be a bit difficult.
Luckily, there are some similarities between them. For instance, each type has a tendency toward perfectionism, makes decisions based on concrete details, and enjoys a well-structured and detailed plan.
ISFJ vs ESFJ
People with the ESFJ personality type (or The Supporter) are classic social butterflies; their strong interpersonal skills allow them to establish a rapport with others easily. This is because ESFJs, who are very empathetic, can read people’s emotions easily and can relate to them without much effort. As a result, they have a strong and broad social network of friends, acquaintances, colleagues, and other connections.
The outward focus of their Fe (Extraverted Feeling) dominant function plays a large role in the ESFJ’s amazing people skills. People with Fe as a dominant function feel motivated and energized by social interaction and can naturally sense another person’s disposition. In addition, ESFJs have Si (Introverted Sensing) as their auxiliary function, which grants them a strong attention to detail and sense of right and wrong.
ISFJs, on the other hand, have Introverted Sensing as their dominant function and Extraverted Feeling as their auxiliary function. Therefore, even though they have strong social skills, they value time alone and don’t enjoy being the center of attention. Their Introversion often leads them to seek a quiet place to get things done.
In conclusion, both ESFJs and ISFJs like to support others. Also, due to their Sensing, Feeling, and Judging preferences, both types are detail-oriented and use emotions and organization to process situations. The main difference stands in the way they get their energy – The Supporter personality type is energetic in large groups and enjoys social interactions, while The Defender personality is reserved and enjoys time alone due to their Introversion preference.
ISFJ vs SP Temperament Types
Each personality type in the SP Temperament type (ESTP, ISTP, ISFP, and ESFP) shares the Sensing and Perceiving preferences. In addition to possessing notable communication skills, the people who share the Sensing and Perceiving preferences have a low tolerance for boredom and a drive to satisfy their curiosity.
Furthermore, these SP types are energetic and love to be the center of attention. They enjoy the thrill of adventure and have a “go-with-the-flow” approach to life, which puts them in contrast with the usually serious and structured ISFJ. In addition, their high energy and easygoing lifestyle can be irritating and tiring for other types that are more reserved and don’t live their life in constant pursuit of adventure.
ISFJ vs ESTP
The ESTP personality type is also known as The Persuader because they love to be the center of attention and have a magnetic personality that attracts others. ESTPs are natural entertainers and enjoy laughter, adventure, and connection with other people.
Furthermore, they are easygoing, make decisions based on instinct, and don’t really like to plan ahead (they’d rather leap into action than stand by and observe the situation). This can be a very attractive trait for some personality types, who see the ESTP personality traits as bold and dashing. On the other hand, these preferences for spur-of-the-moment decisions also make the ESTP personality feel out of place in highly organized structures (school, for instance), which may lead to conflict.
Governed by the Se and Ti functions (Extraverted Sensing and Introverted Thinking), ESTPs consistently seek out new experiences and entertainment (to satisfy their Se function) and also focus on mastering hands-on skills and talents. This contrasts with the reserved and risk-averse ISFJ personality, who lives based on well-designed plans and doesn’t like the spotlight.
While ISFJs have good social skills, the introvert in them requires time alone to think and charge. Furthermore, The Defender personality is meticulous and enjoys order and structure (unlike The Persuader who enjoys uncertainty and thrives on freedom from structure).
The only thing that these two personalities share is their Sensing preference, which makes them detail-oriented individuals. Otherwise, ESTPs and ISFJs are very different, and it’s easy to tell them apart.
ISFJ vs ISTP
The ISTP is known in the 16 personalities community as The Craftsman. As the nickname suggests, the ISTP personality type describes individuals who are curious and talented hands-on workers who want to understand how things function (even if they have to break something apart and rebuild it).
Their curiosity and confidence paint them as interesting, charming people. Still, due to their dominant function (Introverted Thinking – Ti), ISTPs like to keep quiet and work out the best method to solve a problem. ISTPs are considered to be unpredictable yet focused, capable of self-discipline, and intense in their thought process.
Just like the ISFJ type, the ISTP personality type is likely to take life seriously, but they are more competitive and self-directed than the ISFJ. On the other hand, the ISFJ is happy when they can serve others, and they have strong social skills that they use to create connections.
Both types are Sensing personalities, which means they are focused on the present and don’t like unrealistic or idealistic concepts. In addition, both types are reserved thanks to their Introversion, although the ISFJ may seem more social in certain situations. Still, the similarities stop here, as the ISTP can easily adapt to unforeseen changes and uses logic to perceive the world. In contrast, the ISFJ loves structure and organization and uses feelings to make decisions. ISFJs are also more empathetic and can better relate to other people’s feelings and sorrows.
Lastly, The Defender personality is deeply loyal to core values and holds traditions in high respect. In contrast, The Craftsman is spontaneous, always looking for new ways to improve things, and can easily change interests without notice. Thus, if you ever have to tell these two personalities apart, look at the way they work and the hobbies they choose.
ISFJ vs ISFP
The ISFP or The Artist is governed by the Fi (Introverted Feeling) and Se (Extraverted Sensing) cognitive functions. They make about 8–9% of the general population, which puts them among some of the more common types.
The Artist comes across as creative and unconventional, always challenging the status quo. They don’t accept the idea that things must be done a certain way, and they are always looking to refine their internal belief system to make sure it is in tune with their authentic self.
The Defender personality, on the other hand, is well-grounded in reality, empathetic, loyal, and risk-averse. They like the stability and safety that come from structure, organization, and tradition.
Both the ISFJ and ISFP share the Introversion, Sensing, and Feeling preferences, so there are many similarities between their personalities. For instance, both use feelings and their core values to process the world around them. In addition, both types are generally reserved (both are introverts after all) and attentive to the needs of other people.
The difference stands in the fact that the ISFJ personality type can be quite set in their ways and well-organized, while the ISFP personality type adapts easily to change and doesn’t care much about structure. Moreover, ISFPs are not very fond of commitments (they love their freedom), which can be a hindrance when looking for a long-term partner or making progress at work. This is a direct contrast with the loyal and reliable ISFJ personality type, who values long-term commitments.
ISFJ vs ESFP
The ESFP is The Entertainer of the 16 personalities spectrum. They are extroverts who live in the moment and convince everyone around to join in the celebration. Moreover, they are generous with their time and energy and have an irresistible charisma.
Due to their dominant Se (Extraverted Sensing) function, ESFP people have a natural eye for aesthetics and style. They like to be up to date with the trends (in fashion and interior design) to keep up their appearance. In addition, ESFPs are always eager for new sensory information, which can make them seem a bit opportunistic; for example, they don’t really like setting long-term goals out of fear of missing great opportunities in the present, so they tend to keep their options open. Forever friendly and warm, The Entertainer personality type is supportive and caring, which makes them amazing friends and partners. After all, their greatest joy in life is to be surrounded by good friends while they remain the soul of the party. As expected, many famous ESFPs are actors and entertainers, but you can also find them in many other jobs and positions that require working with others (they are extroverted, after all).
While the ISFJ does have good social skills, the introvert in them keeps them quiet and away from the spotlight. They do their best work in the shadows, and they enjoy well-defined tasks and projects.
When compared with an ESFP personality type, the ISFJ is the one that doesn’t stand out in social situations (they are more reserved). Moreover, they don’t like unpredictability, unlike the spontaneous ESFP personality. Both types are happy to help others, but ESFPs struggle with the idea of duty and responsibility (unlike ISFJs who naturally understand and value these concepts).
ISFJ vs NF Temperament Types
NF Temperament types share the Intuition and Feeling preferences, resulting in idealistic individuals who may seem neutral at times. However, this is only an appearance, since their thoughts run deep, pondering complex views and ideas. The NF Temperament types are all about tolerance and kindness, and they care about forging deep connections with friends and family. Still, under their seemingly unruffled and idealistic exterior, they often hide anxiety and difficulty with making decisions (especially under pressure).
ISFJ vs INFJ
The Confidant personality type (Introversion, Intuition, Feeling, Judging) is what you could call an “old soul”. INFJs are wise, determined, altruistic, and reserved, and their main drive is to make the world a better place.
As introverts, INFJs prefer working alone, but they can also forge a long-lasting relationship with people in all sorts of social scenarios. Their Introverted Intuition (Ni) offers INFJs the confidence to trust their own insight and judgment, which is why it’s not uncommon to find them in positions where they offer counsel (even in their personal lives).
However, the same cognitive function (Ni) can cause them to experience the world a bit differently than other personality types. As a result, many INFJs feel like aliens and tend to experience the sense of deja vu quite often. As one of the rarest personality types (around 1.5% of the general population), INFJs possess complex characteristics that may give them an otherworldly glow. At their core, The Confidant personality types are idealists, but they don’t shy away from taking concrete steps to make their ideals and dreams a reality.
ISFJs are not idealists, but they do harbor a similar desire to help others and make the world a better place. Both ISFJs and INFJs share Introversion, Feeling, and Judging preferences, so it can be a bit difficult to tell them apart at first. The difference stands mostly in the fact that ISFJs prioritize concrete facts and organization, paying close attention to detail. In comparison to the Intuitive INFJ personality type, the Sensing ISFJ will be more grounded in the reality of the here and now, while the INFJ will be the visionary who can see and understand the big picture.
ISFJ vs INFP
The INFP or The Dreamer is a true idealist. While they are often lost in thought (a highlight of their strong Introversion preference), INFPs are curious, gentle, and optimistic, always looking to find the good in people. In fact, they are convinced there is a bit of good in everyone (even the people society tends to perceive as bad).
The INFP personality type is quirky and individualistic, always looking for their unique purpose in the world. Furthermore, they care a lot about “what could be,” so their view is set on the big picture and the future rather than the here and now, which is why people may accuse them of having their head in the clouds. Tolerant and caring, The Dreamer is one of the most open-minded and big-hearted personality types. They enjoy life’s diversity and seek self-improvement through new opportunities, ideas, and lifestyles.
Seeking to remain authentic to their own identity, INFPs often don’t feel comfortable when it comes to commitments (they tend to feel trapped by long-term arrangements), and they don’t thrive in highly structured environments. They long for freedom of thought and expression and tend to take criticism a bit too personally.
Unlike the freedom-seeking and quirky INFP personality, ISFJs appreciate “conventional wisdom” and have a deep respect for traditions. The Defender personality thrives on structure and enjoys the comfort of the “beaten path”. They are also a commitment-oriented bunch, who like to put down roots and create a loving and nurturing space for family and close friends.
When we examine each personality type, we see that both the INFP and ISFJ personality types share Introversion and Feeling preferences, so they do understand one another. Still, it’s easy to spot the ISFJ, since they will be the ones more organized and grounded in reality.
ISFJ vs ENFP
The Advocate (ENFP) is an extrovert who enjoys connecting with people from all walks of life. Energetic and easygoing, the ENFP personality type doesn’t mind unpredictable situations and can adapt their behavior according to the information they gather with their Intuition and Feeling.
For The Advocate, living life to its fullest is at the core of their belief system – and they encourage others to do the same. ENFPs can easily express their feelings (and they often do), which increases their charm in any social gathering, whether with friends or at work. Overall, their disposition is warm and positive, and they often manage to brighten the day of those around them.
However, this personality type seems to struggle with practical matters, and they don’t enjoy being limited by structures. Moreover, they have a tough time converting their creative ideas into real action, as they have low project planning skills and don’t enjoy taking a methodical approach.
Both the ENFP and the ISFJ personality types share the Feeling preference (meaning they tend to make decisions based on emotion rather than logic), but the similarities stop here. While the ISFJ type is happy to follow schedules and plan everything down to the smallest detail, the ENFP personality is the exact opposite – they are spontaneous, highly creative, and a bit quirky. ENFPs dislike rigid structures (something an ISFJ would never understand) and adapt to new situations easily.
Lastly, both personality types have good social skills, but the extroverted ENFP is happy in large group settings, while the introverted ISFJ likes to stay away from the spotlight.
ISFJ vs ENFJ
The ENFJ personality type is also known as The Mentor because they are natural leaders who seek to improve their communities. Confident in their own abilities, the ENFJ personality type is led by the Fe (Extraverted Feeling) and Ni (Introverted Intuition) cognitive functions.
With Fe as their dominant function, the extroverted ENFJ type is always ready to communicate and happy to find an engaged audience. They are also honest; once they find a worthy mentee, they don’t shy away from pointing out any traits that need improvement.
The ENFJ personality type thrives when leading others on a journey to growth. Moreover, the ENFJ personality traits allow them to be warm and extremely social, which is why they tend to have extensive networks of acquaintances, friends, and colleagues. Out of the 16 personality types, The Mentor is among the ones who enjoy talking and communicating the most.
While the extroverted ENFJ likes to be the center of attention, cheering on the people they take under their wing, the ISFJ is reserved (although still social in spite of their Introversion) and acts from the shadows. Both personalities have Feeling and Judging preferences, which means they like to follow a routine and use feelings to perceive the world. Moreover, ISFJs are equally interested in helping others – they’re just more quiet about it.
When together, it’s rather easy to tell these two apart since the ENFJ will always seek to communicate and doesn’t shy away from large groups of people (like a true extrovert). In contrast, the ISFJ is energized by small groups of people, preferring not to assume a leadership role.
ISFJ vs NT Temperament Types
The NT Temperament is characterized by Intuitive and Thinking preferences. Logical and ambitious, the personality types in this temperament are driven by logic and are likely to be leaders. Moreover, some of the representatives of the NT Temperament are aggressive and dominant – a reason why they’re called “the doers” of the bunch. Independent and determined, these high achievers are the makers of our world.
ISFJ vs INTJ
The INTJ type is driven by the Ni (Introverted Intuition) and Te (Extraverted Thinking) functions, making them excellent problem-solvers and logical thinkers. Nicknamed The Strategist, this personality type can find the best solutions in stressful situations. Their brain works in a highly logical way, and they can see how everything is interconnected thanks to their Intuition.
INTJ people tend to be extremely smart; they are always analyzing their surroundings and processing information. Moreover, they deeply believe they can change the world through sheer willpower and intelligence (and they are right, most of the time).
The INTJ personality type takes life seriously and has little patience for idle gossip, distractions, or things (like emotions) that don’t contribute to their goal. As such, it’s easy for some personality types to think that they are dry or, sometimes, rude. However, if you have the chance to get to know them in a closer relationship, you’ll be astonished by their wit and delightfully sarcastic sense of humor.
While many personality types (ISFJs included) trust the status quo and the traditional way of doing things, the ever-skeptical INTJ will question everything. They are independent and single-minded, a force of nature who cannot be stopped by mere man-made rules. The Strategist is focused on solving the world’s problems and doesn’t like to back down from an intellectual challenge.
ISFJs are quiet and humble, and they don’t like to share their opinion (which are founded on feelings and values) unless someone insists on it. This comes in direct contrast with the forceful INTJ, who is not afraid to share their logic-based opinions with the world. The ISFJ is more empathetic and can relate to others’ needs at a deeper level, compared to the INTJ.
Nurturing and caring, the ISFJ personality type could make the INTJ type seem cold and inconsiderate in comparison. The two personality types also differ in the fact that ISFJs are highly focused on the here and now, while INTJs tend to see the big picture and are future-oriented.
ISFJ vs INTP
The Engineer is analytical and logical, always looking for new ideas and theories. Curiosity is a strong personality trait for the INTP personality type, which is why they love exploring and making discoveries. Governed by the dominant cognitive function Ti (Introverted Thinking), the INTP personality type is all about rationality and knowledge.
INTPs are quite rare (around 3% of the population), but this is fitting since they would loathe the idea of being common or ordinary. In the 16 personalities spectrum, the INTP type is seen as the inventor of the group, the dreamy professor who uses their impressive intellect to come up with new methods and techniques. In fact, there are many INTPs who are responsible for scientific breakthroughs and discoveries that helped shape the world we live in.
INTPs love patterns, which is why they can easily spot discrepancies. Moreover, they are more interested in discussing abstract ideas and theories, overall seeking to unravel the secrets of the universe. This is a striking contrast to the ISFJ personality type, who is firmly grounded in the tangible present. Where INTPs would use logic, ISFJs use emotions to process information and understand the world so they can easily relate to others. Although they will overcome their introversion to be social and engage in discussion like an ISFJ would, INTPs will do so only on the condition that they are interested in the topic of conversation.
While both personality types prefer to keep to themselves and mull over their thoughts in private, there is a clear difference in the way ISFJs and INTPs behave and react. ISFJs tend to be more emotional and put a lot of feeling into their decisions and actions, while INTPs are highly rational and preoccupied with ideas.
ISFJ vs ENTP
Also known as The Originator, the ENTP personality type is curious, expressive, and spontaneous. Driven by Ne (Extraverted Intuition) and Ti (Introverted Thinking), the ENTP personality type can easily find patterns and underlying connections in the ideas and concepts they explore. Moreover, they are interested in gaining knowledge and increasing their intellect.
As an extrovert, the ENTP thrives around people and likes to engage in conversation as much as possible. However, they mostly aim to discuss their own ideas (which they love to share with others) and enjoy debating issues from different perspectives. Their mind is highly active, and they are constantly thinking about several things at once, which can make them seem scattered and restless.
While the ENTP is open-minded about even the most bizarre of ideas, the ISFJ stubbornly clings to traditions. Moreover, the ENTP personality type is the total opposite of the ISFJ type when it comes to order and structure. ENTPs seem all over the place all the time, while ISFJs value plans and organization. Furthermore, ISFJs are realistic, pragmatic, and detail-oriented, which is far from the ENTP’s idealistic nature.
With these personality traits in mind, it’s easy to see a sharp contrast between the philosophical, energetic, and extroverted ENTP and the realistic, reserved, and introverted ISFJ.
ISFJ vs ENTJ
A natural-born leader, the ENTJ personality type is uninhibited, assertive, and direct in their approach. Also known as The Chief, this personality type is charismatic and confident. Moreover, they tend to use their charisma and confidence to rally crowds to support their goals and ideas.
On the other hand, they have a very sharp mind and use rationality (sometimes at the cost of other people’s feelings) to achieve their goals. As a high-achieving and organized Judging personality, they demand a lot from others, and they want everything to happen according to their timeline. This could make other, more mellow, personality types perceive ENTJs as intimidating and impatient.
Outwardly opinionated, people with ENTJ characteristics take life seriously and are focused on keeping their surrounding world in order. With Te (Extraverted Thinking) as their dominant function, The Chief personality type is often drawn to the pursuit of science and enjoys working in an efficient and well-organized environment.
The Defender personality can feel intimidated and rushed by The Chief, which can amplify their withdrawn nature. Moreover, ISFJs use their feelings and their empathy in their decision-making, while ENTJs use logic and reason to express their thoughts and make their decisions. Since ISFJs would rather work from the shadows, they can be completely overshadowed by a strong ENTJ personality, but this doesn’t take away ISFJs’ value and power.
Both ISFJs and ENTJs are Judging personalities, meaning they love working in well-organized spaces and like to accomplish their goals. However, they do express themselves and behave differently, so it’s rather easy to tell them apart.