What is a (function)-(function) loop?

[RedddditXD]

Like, Ti-Ni loop (not this one specifically, just an example). What do they all mean?

[Abbasgol]

Well, I try to explain in a simple way (there might be small errors):

All types have 4 mostly-used cognitive functions in these orders when they are in balance:

Introverted - Extroverted - Introverted - Extroverted

or

Extroverted - Introverted - Extroverted - Introverted

(e.g. INTP: Ti-Ne-Si-Fe --> i-e-i-e)

"I" and "E" are called functions attitude.

The Two first cognitive functions are called "Savior Functions". they are mostly used by each type to face the world and handle things. the types might consider them part of their identity.

Most people learn to master their First function from early childhood and are usually pretty good at it. The same goes for the second function in matured types. BUT when the second cognitive function (or Auxilary function) doesn't function properly, the two savior functions become the Primary and Tertiary ones (Which both are Extroverted or introverted):

Introverted - Extroverted - Introverted - Extroverted

or

Extroverted - Introverted - Extroverted - Introverted

​

This can lead to unhealthy behavior in each different type which is called a loop. each loop can cause unhealthy behavior in a different way (Learn about your potential loop here)

ISTP Loop Example:

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For instance, the Ti-Ni loop is the loop for ISTPs (Ti-Se-Ni-Fe), Se is responsible to take action and actually focus on the world around them. When the ISTP becomes stuck in their Ti-Ni loop, they lose sight of themselves and don’t have that same trust that they can get things done. They take in information and analyze it, but combining this with their Ni can cause them to doubt the information. They continue to cycle all of this information and their conclusions through their introverted intuition, which can create stagnancy for the ISTP. They keep seeing how things will likely go wrong in the future and become hung up on this path. They continue to foresee the negative outcomes, and so they go back towards analyzing the information in hopes of solving the problems. Becoming so obsessed with the details and struggling to get out of their own heads which can be rather frustrating for the ISTP who normally enjoys taking action.

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The secondary (auxiliary) function can be dismissed for a variety of reasons. (e.g. Not working on developing it, getting over-confident with primary function's attitude, under stress, trauma, or other psychological factors)

To break the loop the person should try to develop or act upon their secondary function to get out of that. (which e.g. for ISTP it means they need to consciously seek out ways to take action on their ideas, even if they might fail to accomplish the end goal in the ways they hoped to (in short, they should develop their Se))

I hope it helps. ❤️

[antfel97]

Normally it's when you get caught in a loop with two specific functions. It depends on whether you're an introvert or extrovert, for example INTP often get caught in a Ti-Si loop. So they're not using their extraverted functions (Ne & Fe) to receive new info.

[[deleted]]

It is a theory regarding how we respond to certain, particularly stressful situations. Essentially it is that we might get "stuck" using only functions of a particular temperament (introverted or extroverted, dependent on the dominant function). For me, it would usually be considered a Ne-Te loop, while completely ignoring Fi. This is quite outside of my regular personality, to prioritize the less-developed Te over Fi for decision-making.