I can offer some general insights.
Personality types, such as the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) types like INTP and ISTP, are believed to be relatively stable throughout life. They are based on fundamental preferences in how individuals perceive the world, make decisions, and interact with others. It's not common for a person's MBTI type to change drastically over time, but there are a few possible reasons why someone might perceive a shift:
Incomplete or Inaccurate Self-assessment: MBTI tests and self-assessments are based on how individuals perceive themselves at a given moment. Factors like mood, stress, or current life circumstances can influence how you respond to questions, potentially leading to an inaccurate result.
Maturation and Development: As individuals mature and gain more life experiences, they may develop new skills and coping mechanisms, leading them to appear more like a different personality type. This doesn't necessarily mean their core preferences have changed, but they might have adapted their behavior.
Temporary Shifts: Personalities can also exhibit some degree of flexibility in certain situations. For example, an INTP might behave more like an ISTP in high-pressure or emergency situations. However, once the situation changes, they might revert to their default INTP tendencies.
Misinterpretation of MBTI Types: The MBTI system is not without its criticism and controversies. Some argue that it oversimplifies the complexity of human personality, and it's not always a perfect fit for everyone.
It's important to remember that MBTI is just one model of personality and shouldn't be taken as an absolute truth or a strict categorization. People are multifaceted and can exhibit traits from various personality types depending on the context.
If you're interested in understanding yourself better or exploring your personality type further, you may want to consult with a professional psychologist or counselor who can provide more personalized insights based on your experiences and history.