The Teen Struggles of Each Personality Type

Have you ever looked back on your teenage years and felt confused by the way you behaved or by different problems that plagued you? Perhaps you’re in the midst of your teenage years and you feel overwhelmed by all the decisions, stressors, pressures, and expectations weighed upon you. Each Myers-Briggs® personality type has a different set of struggles during the teenage years. We’re going to go into those and we’re also going to cover a little bit of the science behind the teenage brain. Hopefully, this can help you (if you’re a teenager) feel a little more understanding of yourself, and if you’re a parent of a teenager this can help you to get a glimpse of the challenges each teen faces and why they face different struggles differently depending on their type.

Not sure what your personality type is? Take our new personality questionnaire here. Or you can take the official MBTI® here.

The Neuroscience of the Teenage Years

Did you know the brain is the last organ to fully develop? That’s right. The teenage brain is still under a great deal of development. In fact, the prefrontal and frontal cortex, the parts of the brain which are responsible for executive decision making and judgment, aren’t fully developed until one is in their mid to late 20’s.

Frances Jensen, author of The Teenage Brain, explains that we have a natural insulation called myelin that covers the connecting regions inside the brain. In order for one section of the brain to send quick signals to other sections of the brain, these connections have to be insulated. This insulation process starts in the back of the brain, and completes in the front of the brain, around the prefrontal and frontal cortex. This process doesn’t complete until the mid to late 20’s or even later. What this means is that when teenagers are struggling with impulse control, empathy, decision-making, and risk-taking behavior, a lot of that struggle is related to the lack of insulation around the connections in the front of the brain.

Once an individual reaches their 30’s, they’re able to access this area rapidly. At this point the brain is fully insulated and so connections take place at an incredibly quick speed. But teenagers have to deal with much slower signals in the frontal and prefrontal cortex, which results in impulsive decisions being made and a struggle to make long-term decisions effectively.

On the plus side, teenagers can learn faster and their memories last longer than adults! So it’s not all bad news for teens. They have what’s called “enhanced synaptic plasticity”, which means that they can learn faster and absorb more information than adults can.

The teenage brain is also more prone to addiction and is more negatively impacted by the effects of alcohol. Jensen said in an interview with NPR:

“Yes, so the alcohol actually – because it’s affecting critical machinery in the brain that is actually at higher levels in the teenager than the adult, there is more target material for alcohol in the developing brain than later in life. And hence, it can have a more toxic effect…..binge drinking can actually kill brain cells in the adolescent brain where it does not to the same extent in the adult brain…So for the same amount of alcohol, you actually get – you can actually have brain damage, permanent brain damage, in an adolescent for the same blood alcohol level that may cause bad sedation in the adult but not actual brain damage.”

You can read more about the teenage brain in Frances Jensen’s book The Teenage Brain: A Neuroscientist’s Survival Guide to Raising Adolescents and Young Adults.

So now that we’ve gone over some of the scientific changes happening in the teenage brain, let’s get into personality type and the teenage brain. How does your personality type impact your teenage years, and what struggles are you likely to face as a result?

The Teenage Struggles of Each Myers-Briggs® Personality Type

 

The ISTJ Teenager

ISTJ teenagers are some of the most responsible and practical teens around. They manage their money well, stay consistent with their studies, and have become more comfortable in social settings. Through life experience, they’ve picked up tact and sensitivity, learning to be considerate even if they still see little point in sugarcoating. Rather than seeking large friend groups, they usually prefer the loyalty of one or two close friends and remain steadfast to those bonds.

When it comes to new ideas or possibilities, ISTJs often face challenges. With Extraverted Intuition (Ne) as their inferior function, they tend to feel cautious or even skeptical about novel ideas or unconventional approaches. Taking risks or stepping outside their personal comfort zones can feel especially daunting during the teenage years, a time when they rely heavily on personal experience and long-held expectations. While many ISTJs, like entrepreneurs Jeff Bezos or Ingvar Kamprad, have become notable risk-takers and innovators, venturing into the unknown during their teen years can be uniquely intimidating.

As they approach the later teen years, however, the pull of their inferior function grows stronger. This creates a dynamic push-and-pull, where the ISTJ may feel curious about abstract ideas one day, only to retreat to their tried-and-true methods the next. During times of significant or chronic stress, they may even feel swamped by negative possibilities, preoccupied with “what ifs” and the uncertainties of the future.

Lastly, ISTJs can struggle with the fickle nature of other teens. They value consistency and loyalty, but many teenagers are swept along by ever-changing trends and impulses. For ISTJs, friends who frequently “switch gears” or seem indecisive can be especially frustrating. More often than not, ISTJs are among the most stable and focused teenagers, setting them apart from many of their peers.

Related: 10 Things You Crave Every Day as an ISTJ

The ISFJ Teenager

ISFJ teenagers are usually the steady, responsible ones. They know how to save a dollar and often get their money straight into savings as soon as it lands in their hands. They’re those rare teens who seem to actually care about deadlines (yes, they exist). Homework done early? Check. Outfits that are trendy and appropriate? Double-check. ISFJs keep it all together with this mix of hard work and responsibility that almost feels too good to be true. At home, they’re reliable and have a knack for handling their obligations without much fuss. Socially, they’re not big on giant gatherings but are loyal to the one or two close friends they choose to keep around, often happy to help out with community events if they’re meaningful.

But here’s where it gets tricky: new experiences and risk-taking. ISFJs, for all their wonderful planning skills, don’t love the unknown. And while this keeps them safe from a lot of reckless decisions, it also sometimes stops them from diving into opportunities that could actually be amazing. As they grow up, they usually open up to trying new things, but as teens, this cautious nature often shows up in crafts, hobbies, or maybe a surprising new outfit here and there.

Peer pressure? That’s a whole other challenge for ISFJ teens. They crave harmony and hate causing waves. But even though they’re naturally responsible, they can feel a pull to fit in that’s hard to shake. They might even cave and go along with things just to avoid sticking out. They might start hiding parts of themselves, feeling like their friends just don’t “get” them anymore. This pressure can build up, and suddenly you’ve got an ISFJ who’s irritable at home, maybe a little snappy. Parents, if this sounds familiar, take heart — it’s normal! It’s just part of that messy phase where teens are figuring out who they are and what they stand for.

Now, let’s look at their “inferior function” — Extraverted Intuition. One day they’re all about the rules, and the next they’re out here thinking up creative, slightly rebellious ideas. It’s like their inner free spirit finally got the invite. But when they’re stressed? That function turns into a warning bell. Suddenly, they’re anxious about everything that could go wrong. For ISFJs, the unknown can feel terrifying, and they’ll look for the safest, least risky path possible.

The best thing parents can do here? Reassure them. Let them know they’re supported no matter where life takes them, and remind them that a little uncertainty doesn’t have to be scary. They’ve got the strength to handle it — even if they’re not quite sure yet.

Related: 10 Things You Should Never Say to an ISFJ

The ESTJ Teenager

The ESFJ Teenager

ESFJ teenagers are the social butterflies with a plan. They dive into junior high and high school, fully embracing the whirlwind of activities, academics, and events. Whether it’s organizing prom or leading student government, ESFJs love to be part of everything. These teens are caring, loyal, and devoted friends who will go above and beyond for the people they care about. But cross them? If a friend is disloyal or mean-spirited, that friend might find themselves swiftly cut from the ESFJ’s life. Loyalty matters deeply to this type.

But adolescence can get a bit tangled for ESFJs. They have so many goals, so many projects — all the things they want to do! And sometimes, they say “yes” to everything. Cue the deadline stress. ESFJs hate rushing to get things done at the last minute, so when they over-commit (which they do), the pressure hits hard. They can get so swamped with responsibilities that they forget to actually enjoy their teenage years. They’re often trying to be with their friends, family, and working on projects all at once, which can leave them feeling pulled in a hundred different directions.

Peer pressure? That’s another tricky one for ESFJs. Approval from friends means a lot to them, and this desire can leave them feeling torn. Without enough alone time, they may find themselves swayed by others’ opinions or unsure of their own dreams. If staying true to their values makes them look like a “goody-goody,” they may hesitate, worried about how they’ll be perceived. With time (and usually a bit more maturity), ESFJs get better at defining their core values and standing up for them. But in the meantime, parents can really help by reminding them that it’s okay to be different and encouraging them to think about their own goals, not just everyone else’s. ESFJs usually know what they believe deep down — they just need a little reassurance that sticking to those values is worth it.

Then there’s the whole “jumping to conclusions” thing. With Extraverted Feeling (Fe) as their main way of understanding the world, ESFJs are quick to form opinions based on emotions and social cues. And while that’s great for reading people, it can also lead them to conclusions that aren’t fully backed up by the facts. They may get pretty stubborn about these opinions, too. Taking regular alone time can help balance this out, giving them space to tap into their more detail-oriented side, recall important facts, and make decisions with a bit more grounding.

Related: The Top 7 Gift Ideas for ESFJs

The ISTP Teenager

ISTP teenagers are the free spirits with a side of “I’ll figure it out myself, thanks.” They’re independent, analytical, and resourceful, often diving into activities that blend clever thinking with hands-on action. Whether it’s sports, rock climbing, video games, or mastering a new instrument, they’re all about exploring varied interests — good luck pinning them down to just one hobby. ISTPs have this natural dexterity that comes from their Se (Extraverted Sensing), and they’d much rather be rolling up their sleeves and tinkering with the real world than sitting back and talking about it.

Most ISTPs are on the quieter side, taking things in, observing the world carefully before they speak. But when they do speak, they don’t hold back. Blunt? Absolutely. It’s part of the charm (and sometimes part of the challenge). Direct and honest to a fault, they’re refreshingly upfront, but that same honesty can catch people off guard, especially if they’re not used to such frankness. This can be especially frustrating for ISTP girls who might be expected to fit into more traditionally “sensitive” roles. Sorry, world, but these ISTP teens are here to call it like they see it.

School, though? That’s a mixed bag. While ISTPs are sharp-minded and logical, high school’s focus on theoretical subjects can bore them to tears. Calculus? Creative writing? They’d rather spend their time mastering practical skills or tackling something hands-on. Proving themselves to teachers or chasing perfect grades? Not their style. They’re more focused on what they know than what anyone else thinks. When grades slip, it’s usually more about a lack of interest than a lack of intelligence. They’re capable — they just don’t see why a report card needs to define that. This perspective can cause friction with parents who expect high marks or a traditional path to college. High expectations without flexibility? That’s a surefire way to make your ISTP retreat to their own world.

And then there’s the boredom factor. Let’s be real, ISTPs hate it. Endless homework and pressure to make long-term life decisions can feel like a cage to them, so they seek out excitement wherever they can find it. This sometimes means risks. Thrill-seeking can pull ISTPs toward extreme sports, and yes, even substances. It’s a bit of a toss-up with ISTPs: I’ve seen plenty who dive into drugs and alcohol for the thrill, while others avoid them entirely, too aware of the long-term risks to feel tempted. A lot of ISTPs are actually repelled by substances that take away their control; they’re more likely to go for healthier thrills like snowboarding, racing, or backpacking across the country.

In short, ISTPs are sharp, independent, and, well… not all that interested in playing by anyone else’s rules. They’re on a path to prove themselves to themselves, and the rest of the world? They’ll deal with it on their own terms.

Related: Understanding ISTP Thinking

The ISFP Teenager

ISFP teenagers are wild-hearted, deeply caring souls who seem to march to their own beat of their own drum. They’re empathetic, independent, and usually all about exploring who they are. Give them a little freedom, and they’re off embracing their strengths and chasing interests that often blend creativity and hands-on action. Acting, designing, athletics, hairstyling? You name it. They’re drawn to any field that lets them combine their compassion with some real-world, physical skills. A lot of ISFP teens I know have an early passion for health care, working with animals, or helping disadvantaged people. They want to live by their values, show compassion, and express themselves freely. One day they’re hitting the books, focused on their studies, and the next? Planning a solo backpacking adventure through Southeast Asia. Rules? Roadmaps? Not their thing.

But here’s the challenge: ISFPs aren’t thrilled about making life-long decisions at 16. High school is full of people saying, “Pick a college! Choose a career!” And ISFPs are just trying to keep their options open, thank you very much. If parents start pushing them to lock down a path before they’re ready? Let’s just say you’ll see frustration in full force. They want the space to explore without feeling boxed in.

And relationships? High school can be a minefield. In childhood, people were honest; things were simpler. Now, there’s pressure to compromise values, deal with bullies, and navigate the whole “fake friend” thing. ISFPs feel torn between sticking up for their beliefs and just fading into the background to keep the peace. It’s this constant, uncomfortable tug-of-war between wanting acceptance and needing to stay true to themselves. This inner conflict can be rough, and a little reassurance from family or close friends goes a long way. They need to know it’s okay to just “be themselves” or walk away from toxic friendships.

Oh, and don’t even get me started on deadlines or money management. Se-users, like ISFPs, tend to live in the moment, which means their allowance can vanish as soon as they get it. They especially like to buy personal gifts for people they love. Academic life, especially with all its abstract concepts, can feel exhausting. Calculus? Conceptual math? They’d rather spend time on something practical or meaningful on a personal level. Give them a study in art, health, or social issues, and they’re all in. Give them calculus… well, let’s just say for every 8 ISFPs who dread it, there might be 2 who secretly enjoy it. Type descriptions aren’t one-size-fits-all, after all!

In the end, ISFPs are refreshingly real and compassionate. They’re just trying to figuring it out in their own way, without anyone telling them how to live.

Related: 5 Ways to Annoy an ISFP

The ESTP Teenager

ESTP teenagers are here for the thrill. They’re driven by experience, adventure, and just about anything that lets them squeeze every drop of joy from life. Friendly, charismatic, and often the life of the party, ESTPs have a natural charm that makes people flock to them. And don’t even get me started on their physical talent — these teens are usually gifted with a natural athleticism that puts them at an advantage in sports. (According to the MBTI® Manual, playing sports ranks as their favorite leisure activity.) ESTPs give off this infectious, high-energy demeanor, making them fun, non-judgmental, and clever, with a knack for bringing excitement wherever they go. Weekends? They’ll likely be found rounding up friends to play baseball, scale a rock wall, throw a party, or maybe even marathon a video game session. Carl Jung himself described Se-dominants like ESTPs as “jolly fellows” with a zest for life, and, honestly, he nailed it.

Now, about academics… ESTPs can find the whole abstract, theoretical side of school kind of, well, dull. They’re clever, no question, but they want to put that cleverness to use in the real world. If something doesn’t have a practical application, they’re tempted to check out. This can lead to some less-than-stellar grades. The key is to make learning a game, a competition, or to appeal to their Introverted Thinking side that loves puzzles. ESTPs aren’t easily swayed by authority or traditional paths; they need to be doing something that lights them up. For some, that means pushing through school to land careers in hands-on, high-stakes fields like surgery, where they can think on their feet. ESTPs who find that spark usually excel and get top grades — they’re smart, just not motivated by things that feel pointless.

Another challenge? Impulsivity. ESTPs live fully in the moment, and planning for what “might” happen doesn’t always cross their minds. Risks don’t scare them; they’re drawn to them, sometimes to the point of recklessness. Street racing, heavy partying, or experimental phases with substances? Let’s just say ESTPs are often overrepresented in those college substance abuse programs. But here’s the flip side: many ESTPs channel that adventurous side into healthier pursuits. Snowboarding, starting their own business, backpacking across the country? They’re all about those bold, real-life experiences that keep their adrenaline going.

In the end, ESTPs are all about living life to the fullest, and they’ll find a way to make even the ordinary feel extraordinary.

Related: 5 Ways to Annoy an ESTP

The ESFP Teenager

ESFP teenagers are the life of the party — adventurous, compassionate, and outgoing. They’ve usually got a big circle of friends, and once you’re in that circle, they’re fiercely loyal. ESFPs seek out new experiences, grabbing every thrill high school has to offer. They’re pros at living in the moment, enjoying everything with this big-hearted enthusiasm that draws people to them. But when adults start talking about “life plans” and “career goals”? Yikes. ESFPs can feel the stress mounting. Planning long-term feels formidable to them; with Introverted Intuition (Ni) as their inferior function, imagining a five-year roadmap can feel overwhelming. They’ll likely need a little extra patience and reassurance from parents while they figure it all out.

And then there’s school itself. ESFPs? They’re not (typically) huge fans of abstract subjects like calculus or algebra. They’d rather be hands-on, doing something that actually feels relevant to the real world. Their natural people skills and practical cleverness can go unnoticed in traditional academic settings. If they’re given a way to learn through real-life application, though, they tend to thrive. A little extra guidance, plus a way to make their learning tangible, can go a long way for ESFPs.

Many ESFPs have a big heart for psychology or social work — they want to make a real difference in people’s lives. Others are deeply moved by animals and dream of a career in veterinary medicine. What ESFPs need is a parent and an education system that gets their unique strengths. No cookie-cutter, one-size-fits-all path here; they’ll do best when their gifts are noticed and nurtured.

Money? Ah, yes. ESFPs are impulse spenders to the core. Se-dominant types like to live in the moment, and if they have the cash, they’ll find a way to use it. Whether it’s buying gifts for friends, splurging on concert tickets, or picking up a little something to remember a big night out, saving doesn’t tend to come naturally. Some ESFPs figure out a hack by putting half their earnings straight into a savings account they can’t touch — out of sight, out of mind, less likely to get spent.

Lastly, ESFPs are sensitive and caring individuals, often deeply affected by the drama that runs through high school social circles. Mean comments, bullying, and backstabbing can really wound them, and without a few loyal friends, they can start to feel isolated. With their auxiliary Introverted Feeling (Fi), authenticity is everything. Real, genuine friendships? Those are essential for a happy ESFP teen.

Related: 5 Ways to Annoy an ESFP

The INTJ Teenager

INTJ teenagers are the ultimate independent thinkers. They love to learn, they love to think ahead, and they’re all about seeing the bigger picture. High school can be a mixed bag for them; they’re often drawn to subjects like math and creative writing that let them stretch those intellectual muscles. But respect is key: if they feel a teacher isn’t up to par or if a class seems pointless, they’re not shy about tuning out entirely or challenging the authority in charge. Still, most INTJs keep their eye on the prize, putting in the effort to get good grades and keep their long-term goals in focus. Rules that don’t make sense? Projects “just because”? INTJs are likely to question, challenge, and, sometimes, ignore.

One big hurdle for INTJ teens? Connecting with their peers. They might want to connect but often feel like the social scene is filled with ever-changing trends and interests that feel, well, shallow. Instead of moping about it, though, they tend to set themselves apart. They might dye their hair a unique color, get a distinctive tattoo, or adopt a style that signals, “I’m not mainstream.” This drive for individuality is fueled by their still-developing Introverted Feeling (Fi) which craves authenticity, and Extraverted Sensing (Se) which brings a touch of risk-taking and a taste for the unconventional.

Speaking of Extraverted Sensing — that’s INTJs’ inferior function, and in the teen years, it can get a little louder. Sometimes it shows up in healthy ways, like taking up a sport or going on nature hikes. Other times, it gets, well, risky. Experimentation with things like drugs or alcohol can be tempting. This is why a little parental guidance on handling tricky situations (drugs, relationships, all that) can go a long way.

Maturity is another thing INTJ teens have in spades — or at least they think they do. They’re smart, well-read, and, by 13, some INTJs believe they could probably live on their own just fine, thank you very much. They can be a tad sure of themselves, to say the least. This confidence can lead them to think they’re a cut above everyone else, and they’ll stick to their opinions with a fierce conviction. The good news? Many INTJs go on to take on internships, travel, and gain experiences that prove their competence and independence. But here’s the catch: they also need to learn that other people, even those who seem totally different, can still have something to teach them. For INTJs, a little respect for other perspectives can make friendships and relationships much smoother down the road.

Related: The Childhood Struggles of INTJs

The INFJ Teenager

Teenage INFJs are a blend of empathy, creativity, and a whole lot of deep thinking. They’re on a mission to find purpose, direction, and, let’s be honest, where they fit in this maze called high school. Many INFJs enjoy some of the creative outlets school provides, like creative writing, drama class, or even band. They’re often curious about the social scene, too, trying to figure out who they click with. Some INFJs dive right into the mix, joining activities and forming close friendships. Others struggle to find that one person who really gets them, and if they don’t, they may become more private, feeling a bit disillusioned by the whole high school social routine.

At home, you’ll often find INFJs diving deep into introspection, exploring who they are outside of the expectations around them. They might start questioning the values they grew up with, challenging beliefs they’ve held for years, and wondering what the true meaning of their life is. This phase can be intense; some INFJs become moodier, others just need a space to ask their questions without feeling like they’re offending anyone. Either way, this time of self-discovery is pretty important to them.

One of the trickiest things for INFJ teens is dealing with their own perfectionism. They hate saying no (especially to people they care about), which means they often wind up with a mile-long list of tasks and not nearly enough downtime. Their drive to do everything just right can lead them to burnout pretty quickly. Daily alone time? It’s a non-negotiable, especially if they want to keep their intuition sharp. Without that alone time, they can get stuck in a “Fe-Se loop,” which is a fancy way of saying they might start caring too much about what everyone else thinks and act on impulse rather than intuition. When this happens, they lose track of their long-term goals and start feeling scattered.

Then there’s high school social life, which, let’s face it, is often not exactly “deep” or “meaningful.” INFJs want to discuss life’s big questions, but high school? It’s often more about popularity and trends. INFJs may try to play along to fit in, but it drains them, making them crave solitude even more when they’re home. Parents might feel like their once affectionate INFJ has turned into a total hermit. It’s just that INFJs need some serious alone time to recharge from all that socializing.

Their empathy is both a gift and a burden. INFJs are hyper-aware of other people’s feelings, picking up on emotional undercurrents in their friendships and family relationships. If there’s any conflict or tension, it’s exhausting for them. They’re often the friends who listen and empathize on a very deep level, sometimes to the point of emotional overload. When they finally get home, it’s common for them to make a beeline for their bedroom to decompress. Without enough alone time, they can become irritable, anxious, or just plain burned out.

And let’s not forget their growing urge for sensory experiences. With their inferior Extraverted Sensing (Se) waking up, INFJs can surprise everyone by going from a bookworm one week to bungee jumping or getting a piercing the next. This “wild side” can feel a bit confusing for them, too; they’re constantly pulled between seeking quiet introspection and craving high-adrenaline thrills. Some INFJs find healthier ways to tap into Se, like through exercise, cooking, or a sport. Others might be tempted by riskier outlets like drugs or alcohol. Parents can help by encouraging them to find healthy ways to engage with their senses and by offering practical advice on staying safe.

In the end, teenage INFJs are all about finding themselves and making sense of a world that doesn’t always make sense to them. Give them space to explore, a place to recharge, and a little guidance, and they’ll find their way.

Want a comprehensive guide to the INFJ personality type? Check out my eBook, The INFJ – Understanding the Mystic.

Related: The Four Reasons INFJs Struggle with Loneliness

The ENTJ Teenager

ENTJ teenagers? They’re ambitious, independent, and have a vision for the future — and they’re not afraid to go after it. They’re the ones with big personalities, memorable confidence, and a knack for leadership. They usually do well in school, as long as they’re challenged. Give them busywork, or a class that feels pointless? They’re likely to tune out and focus on their own goals instead. Many young ENTJs have a natural entrepreneurial streak and don’t mind standing out or pushing boundaries. They often surround themselves with people who either share their vision or bring something unique to the table, whether it’s fellow misfits or ambitious friends who are ready to take on the world.

When it comes to communication, ENTJs are direct — like, very direct. They’ll say what they think and won’t waste time sugarcoating it. This straightforwardness can be both refreshing and… complicated. On the one hand, it gives them unshakable confidence and a reputation for honesty. On the other hand, their bluntness can sometimes cost them friendships, especially if they overlook the emotional impact of their words. Female ENTJs, in particular, may feel this tension, as society still nudges them toward a more tactful role, even when they’d rather just speak their minds.

Another big challenge for ENTJ teens? Feeling boxed in by rules or being treated like a “kid.” They want to prove themselves, tackle real challenges, and show everyone what they’re capable of. When they’re held back or micromanaged, it can make them feel downright rebellious. Sometimes, this frustration fuels them to excel, working even harder just to prove their critics wrong — surprising everyone, maybe even themselves. But sometimes? They’ll rebel just for the sake of rebelling, diving into risk-taking behavior to show they won’t be controlled. It’s all about independence for them.

And then there’s the decision-making. ENTJs like to make fast, confident decisions, thanks to their dominant Extraverted Thinking (Te). They’re not ones to sit around weighing every possibility; they want to get things done. But in the teenage years, this tendency can lead to jumping to conclusions or making quick calls without considering alternative viewpoints. As they get older, they usually start balancing this with their auxiliary intuition, giving them a bit more perspective. But as teens? Expect decisions made at lightning speed — and occasionally, a bit of backtracking when they realize they missed a detail or two.

In the end, ENTJs are about as driven as they come, and they won’t let anything stand in the way of their goals. Just don’t try to hold them back, or you might find yourself on the receiving end of their (very determined) will to prove themselves.

Related: Understanding ENTJ Thinking

The ENFJ Teenager

 

Related: Are ENFJs and ESFJs “Fake”?

The INTP Teenager

INTP teenagers are private, analytical, and highly independent. They’re the ones who live in their heads, constantly building intricate frameworks to understand how the world and its systems fit together. If an INTP is interested in a class, they’ll do well, often without breaking a sweat. But if a subject doesn’t catch their attention? Expect the bare minimum — maybe even less. Abstract concepts are their playground, so advanced math and theoretical topics tend to come easily to them. Many INTPs will tell you they barely had to try to get good grades when they actually cared about the subject.

When it comes to high school social life, though, INTPs usually find it shallow and, frankly, baffling. Popularity, appearances, and gossip? Not exactly riveting topics for an INTP. They’d rather focus on ideas than small talk, and they’re not ones to bend to peer pressure. Because they’re not playing the “fit in” game, they might end up feeling disconnected from the high school crowd. Unfortunately, this can lead to bullying or feeling ostracized for being different. Parents, it’s important to keep an eye out and let INTPs know you appreciate them just as they are. They may not say it, but knowing their unique strengths are valued at home means a lot.

Conflict with parents and teachers? Yeah, that can be a regular occurrence. INTPs aren’t out to be rebellious — they just don’t see the point of following a rule that doesn’t make logical sense. They’re driven by their own standards, and the opinions of others rarely sway them. When INTPs argue, they’re logical and detailed, breaking down every possible angle. And if you’re hoping to “just win” a debate with them? Good luck. INTPs have mastered the art of hairsplitting, which can make conversations with authority figures, well, frustrating. When rules lack a clear reason, they’re likely to feel frustrated, misunderstood, and even a little depressed.

For parents, it’s helpful to set up rules and expectations when everyone’s calm. Give each person a chance to explain the reasoning behind their needs, and try to avoid rules that don’t have a logical basis. If you can outline a clear, rational case for the rules, INTPs are a lot more likely to follow them without protest.

Lastly, there’s the wild card of the inferior Extraverted Feeling (Fe) function. As INTPs enter their teens, they start feeling this odd push-pull between wanting approval from their family or friends and their desire for independence. Emotions and social expectations can feel uncomfortable for them, and they might squirm when conversations turn to feelings. Talking about emotions isn’t their strong suit, and they’d rather avoid it if possible. But a little patience goes a long way — with time, they’ll learn to navigate that Fe side, just don’t expect a full heart-to-heart right away.

Related: 10 Things That Terrify INTPs – According to 314 INTPs

The INFP Teenager

INFP teenagers are creative, imaginative, and feel things deeply. They want to make a real difference in the world and crave meaning in everything they do. But high school? It can feel like a lot. INFPs often feel the weight of big decisions — college, careers, life paths — pressing in from all sides. They’re not quick to decide, either. They see so many possibilities and hate the idea of closing doors too soon. If parents start saying, “Just make up your mind already,” it can leave them stressed and disillusioned. What INFPs really need is support: parents who’ll listen, validate their feelings, and help them brainstorm ways to combine their interests. Also, a reminder that it’s okay to change their minds (no, they don’t have to have it all figured out at 16).

Another big challenge for INFPs? Balancing their need for independence with their desire to stay close to family. They love their families deeply but also want to find out who they are outside that family dynamic. This tug-of-war can be a lot for an INFP. Growing up and separating from family, maybe even questioning old beliefs, can feel bittersweet — they’re trying to figure out their own identity while mourning a bit of the past. To outsiders, they may just look moody or withdrawn, but inside, there’s a storm of emotion and introspection.

Then there’s high school social life. Let’s be real: the popularity contests, cliques, and gossip just don’t make sense to INFPs. They’re on a mission to stay true to themselves, and they’ll stand up for their beliefs even if it sets them apart. INFPs can be mocked for their intensity, their ideals, or their unwillingness to “just go with the flow.” They’re not going to change who they are, but they want harmony, too, so these conflicts can cause serious stress. What they need most? One true friend who really gets them and won’t waver when things get tough. That kind of friendship can make the teen years a whole lot easier for an INFP.

And emotions? INFPs feel them in full technicolor. They experience emotions deeply but often wish they could keep those feelings private. The problem is, their emotions sometimes spill over, and tears or visible embarrassment can be hard to control if they’re hurt or humiliated. They’d much rather keep their feelings under wraps, so being mocked or called “sensitive” only makes things worse.

High school isn’t always easy for INFPs. They need reassurance and acceptance from their parents and true friends who genuinely value them. When their sensitivity and convictions are appreciated, they flourish. When they’re mocked or misunderstood, it can be devastating. According to the MBTI® Manual, INFPs are among the most likely to report feelings of depression in college and are overrepresented in substance abuse programs. If you’re parenting an INFP, be their steady, loyal confidante. Show them that you value them just as they are and that you’ll always be there, no matter what.

Related: 10 Things You Should Never Say to an INFP

The ENTP Teenager

 

Related: 10 Surprising Truths About ENTPs

The ENFP Teenager

ENFP teenagers are passionate, individualistic, and full of big ideas. They see potential everywhere and want to dive into every possibility that comes their way. Enthusiastic and fun-loving, ENFPs are the ones bringing friends on spontaneous adventures and pushing everyone to see the world a little differently. They’re genuinely curious about people — not just what they do, but why they do it. Small talk? Not so much. They’d rather get into real conversations, peeling back the layers. They’re just as curious about the psychology of the cheerleader as they are about the misfit; though, if we’re being honest, ENFPs usually gravitate toward the outsiders and free-thinkers.

One of the biggest challenges for ENFPs? Decision-making. High school can feel like a constant stream of “decide now” moments — pick a college, choose a career path, commit to this or that. For an ENFP who sees endless possibilities, this kind of pressure is infuriating. They don’t want to feel boxed in, and they don’t like it when parents or teachers try to steer their choices. Parents who want to help can play the role of a sounding board: listen, help them sort their thoughts, maybe even jot down some pros and cons. Sometimes just seeing it all on paper helps them make sense of the swirling ideas in their heads.

Another struggle? Taking on too many projects. ENFPs care deeply about people and love pitching in on causes they believe in. They’re natural advocates, rallying behind ideas that matter to them. But here’s the thing — they tend to take on more than they can realistically handle. With all that energy going toward ideas, ENFPs can forget to take care of themselves, sometimes working to the point of exhaustion. Eating, sleeping, and drinking enough water can slip down the priority list when they’re fully caught up in their vision. Reminders to slow down and actually look after themselves? Very helpful.

Then there’s their love of questioning… well, everything. ENFPs love to poke at the status quo, explore the unconventional, and raise topics most people would rather sweep under the rug. This can lead to some friction with parents or teachers who expect obedience or just don’t want to dive into “uncomfortable” topics. Growing up in a strict or dismissive environment can drive ENFPs up the wall. They need room to explore ideas, and they want honesty, even if you don’t agree with them. They’ll respect your perspective, but shutting them down before they’ve had their say? That’s a surefire way to make them feel misunderstood.

In the end, ENFPs are imaginative, open-hearted, and fearless questioners. They just need a bit of freedom, support, and someone to help them turn their big ideas into reality (without burning out in the process).

What Are Your Thoughts?

Do you have any insights or advice to share? Let us know in the comments!

Find out more about your personality type in our eBook, Discovering You: Unlocking the Power of Personality Type.

Want to know more about Myers-Briggs® types in children and teens? Here are a few articles you might enjoy!

The Childhood Struggles of Every Myers-Briggs® Personality Type

What Your Child Needs Based on Their Myers-Briggs® Personality Type

How Each Myers-Briggs® Personality Type Reacts to Stress – and How to Help

 

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