16 Personality Types as Toxic Traits
Today we take a look at the most toxic traits of the 16 personality types. A toxic personality trait is a trait that is harmful to the person that possesses it and those around them. It can lead to a lot of conflict and drama in relationships, both personally and professionally.
Today we take a look at the most toxic traits of the 16 personality types. A toxic personality trait is a trait that is harmful to the person that possesses it and those around them. It can lead to a lot of conflict and drama in relationships, both personally and professionally.
Toxic traits can be someone’s strengths at first glance. But what happens when these traits are taken to the extreme? For example, perfectionism can be a good thing as it leads to high standards. But when it becomes an obsession, it leads to unrealistically high standards. People can become anxious, disappointed, and frustrated when their ideals aren’t met.
Just remember, having a toxic trait does not make you a toxic person. We are all prone to toxic behavior from time to time. Whereas toxic people have a combination of several toxic traits that work together to create a poisonous effect on those around them.
The key to toxic traits is being aware of your own and also being able to spot them in other people. This will help you avoid getting involved with toxic people and also help you deal with them if you must.
Here are each of the 16 personality types and their most toxic trait. If you don’t know your personality type, you can take our free 5-minute personality test.
The most toxic trait of each personality type
INFP: Taking things personally
An INFPs most toxic trait is taking things personally. They can be highly sensitive to criticism and easily offended. They may also hold grudges and dwell on past slights. As emotional people, INFPs have a tendency to overthink things and let their feelings get the best of them. This can make INFPs difficult to work with and be around sometimes. INFPs need to learn to let things go and not take things so personally. They need to learn to communicate their needs and boundaries. And they need to learn to let others have their own opinions without taking it as a personal attack.
ENFP: Recklessness
Recklessness is the toxic trait of ENFPs. ENFPs are known for being impulsive and spontaneous. They can often act without thinking things through. This can lead to ENFPs making poor decisions, acting impulsively, and getting themselves into trouble. As feelers, they can sometimes let their emotions get the best of them. They make decisions based on their heart and how they feel in the moment. Reckless behavior can be dangerous and lead to accidents or poor judgment. ENFPs need to learn to think things through before they act and be more aware of the possible consequences of their actions.
INFJ: Perfectionism
An INFJs toxic trait is perfectionism. INFJs are idealistic individuals. This means they have high standards for themselves and others. However, they may be overly critical and expect too much from people. Whilst perfectionism isn’t necessarily a bad thing, it can become toxic when it’s taken to the extreme. When INFJs are overly critical and perfectionistic, it can lead to them feeling stressed and anxious. It sets them up for disappointment and frustration, at themselves and at other people. This can be tough for those close to them as people as having to live up to unrealistic ideals.
ENFJ: Manipulation
Manipulation is the toxic trait of ENFJs. ENFJs can be very persuasive. They have strong people skills and know how to get what they want from people. They use their charm and charisma to get what they want from others. When this persuasive power is used for manipulative purposes, it can be toxic. They may use guilt trips, emotional manipulation, or even flirting and compliments to get what they want. This toxic behavior can lead to one-sided relationships, as the ENFJ only cares about getting their own needs met. ENFJs need to learn to use their persuasive power for good and not for manipulation.
INTP: Laziness
An INTPs most toxic personality trait is laziness. INTPs are known for being brilliant but they can be lazy. They have a tendency to procrastinate and put things off, especially when they lack inspiration, motivation, and drive. This can lead to INTPs not reaching their potential. It can also make them difficult employees and partners, since they may not be very productive. INTPs need to learn to overcome their laziness and find ways to motivate themselves. They need to set goals and deadlines and stick to them. They also need to find an activity or hobby that they enjoy and can get passionate about. This will help them find the motivation and drive they need to be successful.
ENTP: Argumentativeness
If there’s one thing we know about ENTPs, it’s that they love a good argument. ENTPs are known for being debate champions. They love to play devil’s advocate, it doesn’t even matter if they’re passionate about the topic they are arguing. ENTPs are fun and energetic people to be around. But their toxic trait is that they can be argumentative to the point of being obnoxious. ENTPs can pick fights or argue just for the sake of it. This can be frustrating for those around them, as it can lead to arguments and conflict. ENTPs need to learn to pick their battles. It’s healthy to know when to back down from an argument and know when to let things go.
INTJ: Cynicism
Cynicism is the toxic trait of INTJs. It’s the result of their tendency to be overly critical and analytical. As a result of their risk aversion, they are cautious and skeptical of people in general. They take a long time to grow close to people and they have the ability to see the worst in people. This can make them seem cold and unfriendly. While cynicism can also be a strength in that it gives INTJs the ability to see through people and situations, and this allows them to make better decisions. When overused, however, it can lead to INTJs being pessimistic and negative. INTJs need to remember there are more good people in the world than bad. They should try to focus on the positive aspects of people and situations, and not dwell too much on the negative.
ENTJ: Controlling
An ENTJs most toxic personality trait is their need for control. ENTJs are known for being strong leaders. They are decisive and assertive, and they like to be in charge. This can be a good thing, as it allows ENTJs to get things done and take charge when needed. But when ENTJs become too controlling, they can be toxic. They can want everything done their way and they know best. As a result, ENTJs may control others. They can also use their positions of power to manipulate people into doing things their way. If you are in a relationship with an ENTJ, it is important to be honest with them about their need for control. You may need to set boundaries, and you may need to be assertive yourself.
ISFJ: Conflict avoidance
ISFJs are known to avoid conflict. They are gentle and compassionate people. They are known for their ability to care for others and their need to be of service. ISFJs are typically conflict-avoidant as they don’t like to upset others or cause arguments. But this conflict avoidance can lead to ISFJs not being honest with how they’re feeling. They become people pleasers and which allows others to take advantage of them to the point where they feel resentful when they don’t receive the thanks and approval they are looking for. ISFJs also avoid confrontations even when it’s necessary. This can lead to problems in relationships and in work environments. ISFJs need to learn to deal with conflict in a healthy way. They need to learn to express their true emotions and worry less about what other people think or how they feel.
ESFJ: Jealousy
Jealousy is the toxic trait of ESFJs. They are known for being caring and compassionate people. They are typically very giving and selfless. But their need to be needed and their fear of abandonment can lead to them being jealous of others. This includes feeling threatened by a partner’s success or feeling like they are not appreciated enough. Jealousy can also manifest itself in other ways such as being controlling or possessive. ESFJs need to learn to trust their partners and not be so threatened by their success. They also need to learn not to compare themselves to others and to appreciate what they have.
ISTJ: Stinginess
An ISTJ’s most toxic personality trait is stinginess. They are known for being practical and thrifty people. While this can obviously be a good thing, it can also lead to ISTJs being tight with their money. They may be reluctant to spend money on themselves or on others. This can lead to them being perceived as cheap or ungenerous if they aren’t paying their fair share. It can also lead to problems in relationships if one person feels like they are always the one shelling out money while the ISTJ is tight-fisted. ISTJs need to learn to be more generous with their money and not be so stingy. They should try to spend money on things that are important to them and to their partners. And just make sure they always pay their fair share.
ESTJ: Bossiness
The most toxic personality trait of an ESTJ is bossiness. ESTJs are dutiful and organized people. They like to be in charge and they like things to be done their way. This can definitely be a strength for ESTJs. However, this trait can also be toxic if it’s not kept in check. It can often result in ESTJs being bossy and overbearing. they can be overly particular about their own methods and can be quick to criticize others. This can make for difficult relationships and a difficult work environment. If you’re an ESTJ, try to be aware of your bossiness and make sure you’re not letting it get the best of you. Try to be more flexible and open to other people’s suggestions. It will make you a better leader and a better friend.
ISFP: Self-centeredness
ISFPs have a tendency to be self-centered. They are known for being creative and sensitive people. They are typically very compassionate and understanding. However, their free-spirited and individualistic nature means that they can sometimes be self-centered. This means that they may not always consider the needs of others or they may only do things their way. Whilst there’s a healthy balance between thinking of yourself and other people, it’s important not to disregard the needs of others altogether. ISFPs who are too self-centered may find it difficult to form close relationships with others. You often get from people what you give, so try to remember that it’s important to consider other people’s needs as well as your own.
ESFP: Attention seeking
The toxic personality trait of an ESFP is their attention-seeking behavior. ESFPs are outgoing, fun-loving people who love to be surrounded by people. They are usually the life and soul of the party. However, their need for attention can sometimes be a bit much. They may constantly seek validation from others or they may try to be the center of attention all the time. This can obviously be tiring for those around them and it can also make ESFPs seem shallow or self-centered. If you’re an ESFP, try to be aware of your need for attention. Make sure you’re not always the center of attention and that you’re giving others a chance to shine as well. Try to take some time out for yourself every now and then instead of always being surrounded by people. It’ll do you good.
ISTP: Apathetic
The most toxic personality trait of an ISTP is apathy. ISTPs are known for being independent and logical people. They like to live in the moment and they often don’t care about what’s going on around them. This can obviously be a good thing as it means they’re not easily frazzled or stressed. ISTPs are cool and calm under pressure. However, this apathetic attitude can sometimes be a problem. It can make ISTPs seem uncaring or unemotional. This can obviously be difficult for those around them who need emotional support. ISTPs just need to be aware of this and make sure they’re not coming across as too aloof.
ESTP: Arrogance
Arrogance is the most toxic personality trait of an ESTP. ESTPs are known for being confident and charismatic people. They are also cheeky, flirty, and mischievous. This combination of traits can be very sexy to some people and they are known to be one of the sexiest personality types. However, ESTPs can sometimes push it too far. They can think they are invincible and can do whatever they like without consequences. This can lead to ESTPs making enemies and burning bridges. While their confidence may be attractive at first, it can quickly become off-putting and toxic.
So, there you have it, the most toxic traits of the 16 personality types. Do you agree with your toxic trait? The key is to be aware of your toxic trait and learn to manage it over time. That way, you’ll be able to avoid letting your toxicity take over and ruin your relationships or your career. It’s also important to be able to spot them in other people so that you know who and what you are dealing with.
And remember, we all have toxic traits to some degree. It doesn’t make us toxic or bad people. So just try to be the best version of yourself that you can be.
If you’re trying to identify toxic people in your life, check out our ranking of the most manipulative personality types. We also look at how manipulation manifests in each type as we are all guilty of it from time to time.