Which MBTI Is Most Manipulative? The Cunning Side Of Each

Are you curious to know which MBTI is most manipulative?

The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) is a popular psychological tool that classifies individuals into sixteen distinct personality types.

Each type possesses its own set of strengths, weaknesses, and tendencies.

While most of us operate with good intentions, certain circumstances can lead individuals of any type to resort to manipulative behaviors.

In this comprehensive overview, we explore how each personality type might manifest manipulative tendencies, especially when they’re not in their healthiest state.

16. INTP

INTPs are independent thinkers with a unique take on life. They love their own space and aren’t big on mind games.

They use logic and facts to convince others.

But, taken too far, their smarts can backfire.

They’re witty, clever, and always want to keep their brains buzzing.

Sometimes, they might toy with others just for fun. Bored? They’ll jump to the next exciting thing, leaving some folks behind.

But let’s get one thing straight: INTPs aren’t naturally scheming.

Manipulation? It’s complicated. It might come from not really getting others, wanting some control, or feeling unsure about themselves.

For INTPs, it might just be about chasing a mental thrill.

The fix? More empathy. Trying to get where others are coming from helps.

So, while INTPs are smart and might play some mind games, it’s not their core vibe.

15. ISTJ

ISTJs are all about being practical, logical, and orderly.

They’re not really into mind games – they’d rather keep it real and get stuff done.

They’re big on being straight-up and just tackling challenges head-on.

For them, it’s simple: Why mess around when you can just ask outright?

Being direct is their thing, and they’re proud of it.

RELATED: Most Mature MBTI Types: 16 Personalities Ranked

But here’s the catch: Anyone can slip up, even ISTJs.

Some might get crafty, using their smarts and system know-how in sneaky ways.

Think finding shortcuts, even if it means stepping on some toes.

Still, most ISTJs stick to their playbook of honesty and order. That’s how they keep things straight and make a real difference.

14. ISTP

ISTPs are cool, laid-back folks. They live in the now and let others be.

They’re big on honesty and just doing their own thing, without any shady business.

Sure, they might use their charm here and there – maybe to snag a deal or lighten the mood. But pulling strings isn’t their style.

Still, some ISTPs might twist that charm if they’re not in a good place. They could make others do the not-so-fun stuff.

But for the most part, ISTPs keep it straight. They like their space and give others theirs. No mind games, just realness.

13. ESFP

ESFPs are the life of the party. They’re vibrant, creative, and all about living in the now.

They’re straight-shooters, usually not playing games with folks. They’d rather tell you what’s up than twist things around.

But sometimes, if things aren’t great, they might turn on the charm a bit too much.

Maybe it’s to snag a freebie or catch someone’s eye. When they want, they can really play the game, using their social savvy.

But let’s be real: being sneaky isn’t their main jam. They’re usually all about fun and keeping things light.

Yet, when they’re feeling off, they might pull a few strings.

The best thing for an ESFP? Taking care of themselves.

Finding joy, boosting their self-love, and maybe even talking to someone can help.

That way, they stay their bright, bubbly selves without any tricks up their sleeves.

12. INFP

INFPs are dreamers with big hearts. They’re all about doing good and have a soft spot for the world.

They’re not usually into playing mind games.

But when they’re not feeling 100%, they might get a bit pushy with their ideals.

They could come off preachy, expecting everyone to see things their way. Some might even pull the “feel sorry for me” card.

Unhealthy INFPs can get judgy. If you’re not on their wavelength, they might twist things a bit to tip the scales in their favor.

But remember, this isn’t the usual INFP vibe.

When they’re in a good place, they’re just all about love, understanding, and making the world brighter.

RELATED: Most Romantic MBTI: Ranking of Love in the 16 Personalities

11. INTJ

INTJs are brainy and love a good strategy. They’re all about outsmarting, not outplaying with sneaky moves.

But when they’re off-balance, they might use their smarts in not-so-cool ways.

Maybe they’ll throw some sharp words around or use insider info to get a leg up.

These folks are goal-getters. They’ve got big plans and aren’t shy about taking risks.

They’re usually a few moves ahead, which is awesome but can be a bit much if they feel cornered.

In those tight spots, they might pull a few strings to make things work in their favor.

But let’s be clear: INTJs value straight talk. They’d rather crack a problem with logic than play games.

When they’re in their groove, they lean into their brains, not tricks.

So, while they might get crafty now and then, it’s not their main move.

10. ESTJ

ESTJs are all about keeping things organized and steady. They like things straight-up and practical. They’re not really into playing games.

But everyone has off days, right?

Some ESTJs, when they’re not feeling their best, might flex their control muscles a bit too much.

Maybe they’ll push people around using their authority or throw in some perks to sway opinions.

Like, an off-kilter ESTJ might lean into their responsibility vibe and push their team a bit too hard.

Or they might spot a weak point and use it to steer things their way.

But, most of the time, ESTJs are stand-up folks. They want to do things right and efficiently. No need for any sneaky moves.

People respect them for being cool, calm, and responsible.

And while some might take a detour now and then, the real ESTJ style is all about being straight and true.

9. ISFP

ISFPs are usually chill, kind-hearted folks who cherish being free and unique.

They feel things deeply, which is great, but it can also be a bit tricky.

When they’re not at their best, they might play the “feel bad for me” card.

It’s not about being mean; it’s more like their way of dealing when things get tough.

Sometimes, they might use their natural charm to sway people. Not always with bad intentions, but more like a way to get by.

The key for ISFPs? Keep tabs on those emotions.

When they keep things in check, they’re less likely to lean into those not-so-cool tactics.

8. ENFP

ENFPs? They’re the life of the party! With their charisma and energy, they’re hardly the manipulative type.

They’re all about diving into new things and making the world a better place.

But hey, no one’s perfect. When they really believe in something, they might turn on the charm a bit too much to get you on board.

And with their quick wit, they might snag something they want without really thinking it through.

Oops! Sometimes they don’t even notice they’re doing it, and then they might kick themselves for it later.

Still, most people adore them. They’re caring, super creative, and just a blast to be around.

But, a little advice for ENFPs: Keep an eye on that charm so it doesn’t steer you wrong.

7. ISFJ

ISFJs are usually the sweet, caring type. But when they’re not feeling their best, they might pull some strings to get their way.

While they’re usually all about helping and understanding others, a not-so-great day might see them using their deep understanding of people for their own gain.

Maybe it’s guilt-tripping someone, tossing out a compliment to sway opinion, or even acting the victim.

But hey, let’s remember: this isn’t the usual ISFJ way. They’re mostly about kindness and looking out for folks.

This tricky behavior isn’t their typical style—it’s more of an off-day kind of thing.

For ISFJs, a bit of self-reflection can help them steer clear of these moments and stick to their true, caring selves.

6. ENTP

ENTPs? Oh, they’re the quick-witted charmers of the bunch.

Sure, they’ve got a bit of a rep for bending things their way, mainly because they’re so darn persuasive.

They’ve got this natural flair for communication that just draws people in. It’s no wonder they’re pros in sales and marketing.

But here’s the twist: if they’re in a bad space, they might use these same talents in not-so-cool ways.

An off-track ENTP might get a kick out of making you dance to their tune, just for fun.

RELATED: How to Communicate with ENTPs

Or they might twist your arm with their debate skills until you see things their way.

But let’s not paint them all with the same brush. ENTPs can also be super creative, pushing boundaries and dreaming up new ideas.

So while they might have a sneaky move or two, they’ve also got a world of good to offer.

5. ENTJ

ENTJs? They’re the confident go-getters. When they walk into a room, you know they mean business.

They’ve got this drive, this vision, and they know how to rally the troops. It’s that natural leadership thing they’ve got going on.

But, with great power comes great… temptations. If an ENTJ goes off the rails, they might wield that leadership charisma a bit too forcefully.

In fact, some might argue they rank high among the puppet masters of the personality types.

RELATED: Most Stubborn MBTI Types Ranked (+ What They’re Inflexible About)

An ENTJ who’s lost their compass might use that charm to get what they want, or flex their authority muscles a bit too hard.

It’s not about collaboration for them anymore; it’s about conquest.

But remember, not all ENTJs are like that. It’s just a pitfall they need to watch out for.

When they’re on track, they can achieve great things and lead with integrity.

4. INFJ

INFJs? Ah, the insightful empaths of the bunch.

Known for their depth, compassion, and knack for “just knowing” what’s going on in another’s soul.

They can genuinely understand, often even better than you understand yourself. Sounds great, right?

Well, there’s a catch.

While most INFJs use their powers for good, helping and understanding others, things can get a bit… complicated when they’re out of balance.

That emotional radar they’ve got? When misused, it’s like an X-ray into your weak spots.

They might catch onto someone’s insecurities and, instead of helping, use it as a control knob.

It’s not always for selfish gain; sometimes it’s about making the world fit their idea of “right.”

But if that compass gets a little twisted, their methods can become pretty manipulative.

So yes, while many praise INFJs for their kindness and insight, remember they’re also human.

They’ve got shadows just like the rest of us. It’s crucial for INFJs to keep their balance and for those around them to be aware of the signs.

But when they’re in their element? Truly a force of good.

3. ESFJ

ESFJs, the quintessential caregivers of the Myers-Briggs world.

With hearts as big as their social circles, they thrive on understanding and meeting the needs of others.

They’re the ones who remember your birthday, your favorite song, and probably the exact words you said during a conversation three weeks ago.

But it’s a thin line between caring and controlling.

For those ESFJs who aren’t on their A-game, their very strengths can become weaknesses.

Their tendency to harmonize can shift to people-pleasing or even emotional manipulation. A classic move? The guilt trip.

“After all I’ve done for you?” might slip out more than once.

Or they might butter you up with flattery, not genuinely, but as a means to an end.

It gets tricky because they come wrapped in a package of trustworthiness and kindness.

So, it’s easy to overlook or excuse manipulative tendencies.

Remember, it’s not that ESFJs are manipulative by nature. It’s just that, like all of us, they can veer off course.

The key is awareness – both for ESFJs to check in with their motives and for those around them to hold them accountable.

Because when they’re true to themselves, they’re the ones that make the world feel a little warmer.

2. ESTP

ESTPs are often the life of the party – confident, quick-witted, and full of energy.

These qualities, combined with their undeniable charm, can make them incredibly persuasive.

They can dazzle a room, engage anyone in a conversation, and usually leave a lasting impression.

But there’s a flip side to every coin.

This same charisma can, in some cases, border on manipulation. Imagine being swayed by that sharp humor or being drawn in by a well-placed compliment.

Before you know it, you might be dancing to an ESTP’s tune without even realizing it.

And their natural risk-taking can sometimes mean they play fast and loose with others’ feelings or interests.

It’s not so much about malice but more about impulsiveness.

A not-so-grounded ESTP might leap before they look, influencing others in the process, without fully pondering the consequences.

But, labeling all ESTPs as manipulators would be a disservice.

Many channel their infectious energy into genuinely positive endeavors, winning people over with genuine charisma, not calculated moves.

So, if you find an ESTP trying to charm their way into or out of something, it’s good to take a moment, step back, and assess.

Remember, every personality has its shades of gray – it’s all about how we choose to color our actions.

1. ENFJ

ENFJs, often dubbed as the “givers” or “protectors”, are naturally attuned to the emotional nuances of those around them.

Their innate emotional intelligence and intuition allow them to effortlessly connect with others, fostering deep bonds and mutual trust.

This powerful blend of traits is typically harnessed to support and uplift those they care about.

But like any tool, it can be misused.

Some argue ENFJs have the potential to be master manipulators.

Their ability to deeply comprehend others’ emotional landscapes means they know just which strings to pull.

Masked behind their engaging charm, an ENFJ with the wrong intentions can subtly push agendas, making it appear like they’re merely being supportive or helpful.

This isn’t to paint a grim picture of all ENFJs.

Many use their gifts for profound good, acting as healers or counselors, genuinely striving for harmony and understanding.

However, an ENFJ swaying away from their path may use their abilities more as tactics than gifts.

What’s more, their adeptness in molding perceptions means they can sometimes reframe situations, making even their manipulations seem empathetic or righteous.

It’s a sophisticated dance of emotional cues and persuasive arguments that can be tricky to discern.

In essence, while ENFJs bring a lot of light to the world, it’s crucial to be vigilant. Every personality type has its shadows.

For the ENFJ, it’s the fine line between genuine care and manipulation.

Recognizing this potential helps one appreciate their strengths and tread cautiously in their complexities.

Final Thoughts

It’s important to remember that while certain types might be more predisposed to specific manipulative behaviors, not all individuals within that type will display these tendencies.

It’s always vital to approach people as unique individuals rather than generalizing based on their MBTI type alone.

It all depends on the individual and the circumstances.

Manipulation can also take many other forms. An ENFJ is more prone to control others with charm and flattery.

In contrast, an ENTJ is more likely to utilize their position of authority. It all boils down to the person in the end.

Remember that just because you have a specific personality type does not guarantee that you will show the undesirable tendencies outlined in this piece!