It’s easy to assume emotional intelligence (EQ) is a fixed trait — something you’re either born with or not. But that’s not true. EQ is a skill, not a destiny. And while certain MBTI types may start with strengths that align more naturally with emotional awareness and connection, others may begin with different strengths — like logic, analysis, or independence.
So, which MBTI types tend to score lower on emotional intelligence? And why? Let’s explore the trends — gently.
What We Mean By "Lower EQ"
This doesn’t mean emotionally unintelligent. It simply means that, on average, these types may score lower in areas like empathy, emotional expression, or interpersonal communication. And that’s often because they’re wired to prioritize logic, autonomy, or abstract thinking over emotional cues.
MBTI Types That May Score Lower on EQ (On Average)
1. INTP – The Logician
INTPs are brilliant thinkers who love analysis and abstract reasoning. But they can sometimes overlook emotional context or struggle with expressing their own feelings. Their strength is logic, not necessarily emotional nuance — though with reflection, they can become incredibly self-aware.
2. ISTJ – The Inspector
Reliable, focused, and practical — ISTJs thrive on structure and clear rules. But emotions don’t always fit neatly into frameworks, and ISTJs may find it challenging to navigate gray areas of emotional expression or empathy.
3. INTJ – The Architect
Strategic and independent, INTJs often prefer ideas over emotions. They may appear emotionally distant, not because they don’t care, but because they value efficiency and clarity over emotional processing. Developing EQ helps them become more effective (and approachable) leaders.
4. ESTP – The Entrepreneur
Action-oriented and fast-paced, ESTPs live in the moment and love solving problems on the fly. But slowing down to reflect on emotions — theirs or others’ — can feel unnatural. That said, their adaptability gives them great potential to grow in emotional awareness.
5. ISTP – The Virtuoso
Independent and pragmatic, ISTPs tend to process emotions internally and can appear detached. They prefer solving practical problems over emotional ones — but developing empathy and communication skills can open up deeper connections.
This Is Just a Starting Point — Not a Limitation
Just because your MBTI type might start with lower EQ traits doesn’t mean you’re stuck. Emotional intelligence is learnable. And in fact, many thinkers and introverts develop exceptional EQ over time because they’re observant, reflective, and intentional about personal growth.
The truth? Your EQ is not defined by your MBTI — it’s shaped by your effort.
Takeaway: MBTI types like INTP, ISTJ, and INTJ may start with traits that lean more toward logic and independence than emotional expression — but EQ is a skill anyone can build. And once you do, it adds powerful new dimensions to your personality and relationships.