"Openness" of the Mental Functions
If you look at the mental functions (1 through 4), there is a clear tendency for each function to be more restrictive than the previous one, with the 1st function most open to new information and the 4th function most closed.
The base function is open to new experience and is willing to consider pretty much any information that comes its way, even though this function forms opinions quickly and often categorically (and loves to exaggerate). The creative function has a considerably more restrictive view of reality and doesn't want to consider "useless" information corresponding to this aspect. The role function is more restrictive yet and "tries" to operate just enough to avoid major risks to one's well-being and social reputation. The vulnerable function barely tries to consider new information -- much less information that is clearly inapplicable to one's situation -- and only considers information that the individual has dealt with on a personal level.
Here are some scattered examples:
- IEEs and SEEs believe that all relationships should be good and don't want to invest in or waste time with those that aren't ideal or don't go anywhere (restrictions on 2
). EIIs and ESIs do not shun "bad" relationships, but see them as an integral part of life that must be worked with and learned from (no limitations on 1
- IEEs believe that people are the way they are and are worthy of study and understanding no matter what makes them tick (no limitations on 1
). EIIs believe that people should strive towards certain ideals (restrictions on 2
- LSEs and ESEs find recreation, enjoyment, and comfort very important, but try to "perfect" these activities by ridding them of unpleasant sensations (restrictions on 2
). SEIs and SLIs are more open to experimenting with new sensations, even if not all turn out to be positive.
- ILIs and SLIs try to avoid doing any "useless" work and applying ineffective methods that don't bring any immediate returns (restrictions on 2
). LIEs and LSEs are more open to experimenting with new methods to test their effectiveness, even if that means wasting energy and discovering dead ends.
- IEIs and SEIs try to brighten up the emotional atmosphere and avoid "negative" emotions (restrictions on 2
). EIEs and ESEs are less likely to avoid or skirt heated negative emotional situations, because this is part of what life is about.
- ILEs are likely to ignore logical systems and classifications that they see as pointless or lacking in insightfulness (restrictions on 2
), while LIIs are more open to considering any systems, perhaps to hone their logical thinking skills or to whet their mental appetite.
- IEEs and EIIs both don't appreciate coercive or overbearing behavior (who does, really?), but IEEs believe they personally need to be capable of coping with it effectively, while EIIs believe it should be eradicated altogether (greater restriction on 4
than on 3
