The Place Function Block (Program + Observational functions)
The Block of Place (also referred to as the Block of Contrast or Sanctioning) is built upon the individual's strong, accepting, and inert functions.
This block defines a person's sphere of self-perception and understanding regarding their role and station in various situations and the wider world. It involves a deep-seated drive to identify, evaluate, and prioritize what is most significant to the individual, including determining the most suitable social position for them.
Through the Block of Place, we define our personal status in the world and comprehend our social role relative to others, driven by the need to find our niche and answer the question: "Who am I, and what is my essential nature?"
The Program Function expresses this block by forging a unique personal stance and viewpoint. The individual displays their individuality and seeks to convey their perspective to others, often aiming for a prominent position (defining significance).
The Ignoring Function contributes by providing an external viewpoint on how others evaluate the individual's position (associated with suppressing or ignoring that importance).
The Block of Place allows a person to achieve structure, rootedness, and clarity regarding their goals and interests. It is associated with making claims (or strong convictions), deep-seated adherence to principles, stubbornness, self-will, and individuality.
Activation of these functions often requires a long inclusion period and time for detailed information processing. They are used to set goals, form opinions based on one's worldview, and assert a claim to objectivity by developing a unique perspective. The block's activity significantly influences the overall personality type, dictating how an individual perceives and strives to occupy their space in the world.
People with an active Block of Place can exhibit mistrust, fastidiousness, and firm principles. Their highly analytical approach can occasionally confuse others.
The Place Function Block by Aspects
Self-definition is tied to one's profession, position, title, and competence. Identity is rooted in one's hierarchical standing and authority in a field. They strive to understand their logical position (e.g., "I am a doctor, a programmer").
These types define themselves through social role, work, and results. They often immerse themselves in their occupation, sometimes neglecting personal life. Proof of competence and having a clear task are crucial.
They use intellectual data and a logical reference point for assessment. Decision-making requires rational explanations and links to underlying causes.
Self-definition is based on interpersonal relationships, feelings, and emotions. They question their role in others' lives and how they are perceived. They reflect on how rich, happy, and engaging their life has been.
They set expectations and standards for relationships. They desire relationships to be rich and happy, seeking approval and support from their social circle. They expect others to support their emotions and contribute to their happiness. They contemplate the emotions and relationships they should have, striving for many friends and minimal enemies.
Self-definition is shaped by one's inner world, dreams, ideas, life purpose, and potential for self-realization. Their sense of place is diffuse and imaginative, focusing on the future or reflecting on past events and possibilities. They fear stagnation and identifying fully with reality.
They live in a world of ideas, seeking to explore concepts, possibilities, and first causes. They strive for an understanding of the world's structure, valuing deep meanings and essential aspects.
Example (Ne/Ni Conflict): A person with Leading Ne (search for meaning and potential) needs time to focus and fully study a phenomenon. However, they face challenges from their Observational Ni (relevance/priority) and their environment, both of which question the current importance of their focus ('Is it worth spending time on this?'). The block becomes inactive if the person withdraws or attempts to justify their interests to others, viewing those interests as insignificant. Conversely, the block activates when the person addresses these questions, striving to define the role and place their interests occupy in their life, and subsequently defends their views, thereby gaining confidence and meaning.
Consequences of an Inactive Block (Example using Ne): If a person with Leading Ne has no compelling passions or goals, they may live a superficial, idle existence. Lacking a drive for self-realization or analysis, they are left with aimless consumption. Their inability to establish stable goals results in poor relationship, career, and material outcomes.
Self-definition is tied to their physical body, possessions, and surrounding space (home, car). They evaluate themselves and others based on achievements, material ownership, and physical well-being.
They are well-grounded and focus on the present day. They aim to define their physical space by determining what is permissible/forbidden (e.g., rest, illness), the division of territory, and financial spending. They strive to improve their place by enhancing comfort and material status.
SEI example
When the fears are overcome - once the SEI has determined the type of work that is interesting/appealing to them and understands the necessary steps, - we explain that their place—what will truly resonate with them—is only validated through physical contact and sensations.
They need to physically visit the potential workplace and assess their sensory and emotional impressions of the environment. This might involve going to the office, speaking with the receptionist, and interacting with the staff. They evaluate the atmosphere—observing the mood in the breakroom, the staff's creativity, and the general friendly, dynamic, and creative vibe. Are the people visibly enthusiastic?
The SEI relies solely on their sensory impression to decide if it is the right fit, whether the place feels comfortable, and if they wish to associate with the location and the individuals there.