Personality Dominant Function Challenges | From Ep 560 | PersonalityHacker.com

The podcast discusses the challenges that arise in relationships when partners share the same dominant function, specifically focusing on the 'hero' archetype and its impact on how individuals interact. This shared dominant function can lead to power struggles and conflicts as each person expects the other to adapt to their way of approaching situations, often stemming from an unconscious assumption of personal authority based on their dominant function.

Dominant Function & Hero Archetype

• 00:00:05 The podcast introduces the concept of the 'hero' archetype, which is related to the dominant function in the 4-function model of personality. This 'hero' function is also known as the 'driver' and represents the way an individual instinctively approaches the world, seeing it as needing to adapt to their way of operating. This function is also aligned with the 'axis of relating to self'.

Relationship Challenges

• 00:04:30 When individuals in a relationship share the same dominant function, it creates a dynamic where both partners operate from the 'hero' archetype, leading to potential conflicts. Each person expects the other to adjust to their preferred way of handling situations, which leads to power struggles when one partner disagrees with the other's approach. This dynamic is amplified when both partners have an assertive or analytic orientation towards the function.

Shared Dominant Function & Conflicts

• 00:05:01 The podcast uses the example of two individuals with extroverted Intuition as their dominant function, highlighting how they might clash in brainstorming or creative sessions due to both wanting to lead and set the direction. The speakers share their experiences of conflicts that arise when each attempts to impose their approach on the other, demonstrating that even with shared strengths, a power struggle can ensue.

Power Struggles & Solutions

• 00:08:31 The speakers emphasize that recognizing when these power struggles stem from one's 'hero' or dominant function is crucial in resolving conflict. Understanding that it is often an unconscious assumption of authority that drives this behavior can help individuals approach conflicts with greater awareness and compromise. The speakers emphasize the importance of identifying where power struggles arise and recognizing the heroic element at play in relationships.