Intertype Relations in Socionics

Author: Ahti Valtteri

Main / Knowledge Center / Intertype Relations in Socionics

Intertype relations in Socionics describe how easily representatives of different sociotypes will understand each other and how comfortable their communication will be. The properties of intertype relations are explained by how the corresponding aspects are arranged in the functions of Model A for each type. Before examining specific intertype relationships, let's briefly review some characteristics of the blocks in Model A, which explain why intertype relationships manifest the way they do.

I Base	II Creative
IV Painful	III Role
VI Activation	V Suggestive
VII Restrictive	VIII Background

Horizontal blocks of Model A: Ego Block, Super-Ego Block, Super-Id Block, Id Block.

Ego Block. This block makes a person feel confident and focused on actively providing information, hoping it will be appreciated by their partner. It makes one easily notice others' shortcomings and want to explain or demonstrate the correct way to do things.

Super-Ego Block. A person feels uncertain here, yet sees actions in this block as necessary, so criticism is taken very painfully. However, practical help is welcomed without words or focus on mistakes.

Super-Id Block. A weak but valuable block. Any information is welcome here, even criticism, and help is received with gratitude. Not receiving information in this block leads to dissatisfaction and the sense that something is missing.

Id Block. Strong aspects that the person feels confident about, but unlike Ego aspects, they don't feel the need to express them actively. Active discussions of this block's aspects can be irritating.

Based on these block properties, let's consider specific types of intertype relationships.

1. Dual Relationships and Activation Relationships

I	II
IV	III
VI	V
VII	VIII

I	II
IV	III
VI	V
VII	VIII

Scheme of dual and activation relationships. Blocks containing the same aspects are highlighted in the same colors.

In these relationships, the Ego block of one partner aligns with the Super-Id block of the other, creating a natural flow of information that is welcomed and appreciated. This makes dual relationships the most comfortable for long-term interaction, especially for family life. However, there is always a leading partner who knows what to do, while the other follows, receiving help and guidance.

2. Identical and Mirror Relationships

I	II
IV	III
VI	V
VII	VIII

I	II
IV	III
VI	V
VII	VIII

Scheme of identical and mirror relationships. Blocks containing the same aspects are highlighted in the same colors.

Identical relationships occur when all four blocks have identical aspects. Partners share a similar worldview, allowing for creative collaboration, though they may struggle to help each other with weak functions. Mirror relationships allow for effective learning, but can also lead to unintentional conflict through the role function, especially if the partners have unaccepted traits in themselves.

3. Conflict and Super-Ego Relationships

I	II
IV	III
VI	V
VII	VIII

I	II
IV	III
VI	V
VII	VIII

Scheme of conflict and Super-Ego relationships. Blocks containing the same aspects are highlighted in the same colors.

In these relationships, the Ego block of one partner aligns with the Super-Ego block of the other. This results in constant criticism from the Ego of one partner, who points out the weaknesses in the other’s activities. The criticized partner feels frustrated because their weak functions are exposed, leading to tension and discomfort. Conflict and Super-Ego relationships are less suitable for close long-term interaction, such as family life.

4. Quasi-Identical and Complete Opposite Relationships

I	II
IV	III
VI	V
VII	VIII

I	II
IV	III
VI	V
VII	VIII

Scheme of quasi-identical and complete opposite relationships. Blocks containing the same aspects are highlighted in the same colors.

In these relationships, the Ego block of one partner aligns with the Id block of the other. Both blocks are strong but have different priorities, leading to disinterest in the other’s contributions. This can make communication stagnate and diminish mutual appreciation.

5. Semi-Dual, Business, Kinship, and Mirage Relationships

I	II
IV	III
VI	V
VII	VIII

I	II
IV	III
VI	V
VII	VIII

Scheme of business relationships. Functions that fully match are underlined. Blocks with matching aspects are highlighted in the same colors.

In these relationships, one partner’s aspect falls into different blocks for the other partner, resulting in some shared values but also notable disagreements. This can make joint activities difficult but provides opportunities for growth in weaker functions.

6. Asymmetric Relationships: Social Order and Revision

I	II
IV	III
VI	V
VII	VIII

Under-Revision

I	II
IV	III
VI	V
VII	VIII

Revisor

Scheme of revision relationships. Blocks with matching aspects are highlighted in the same colors. Functions that fall into the painful block of the partner are italicized.

In revision relationships, the base function of the revisor affects the painful function of the under-revision partner, causing discomfort. However, the under-revision partner's creativity and role functions can still influence the Super-Ego of the revisor, making the relationship asymmetrical and often uncomfortable for the under-revision partner.

Both social order and revision relationships form four groups, known as order rings and revision rings, respectively. These rings allow information to flow from one partner to another, enabling effective collaboration despite the discomfort these relationships can create.

Register