The idea that INTJs (Introverted, Intuitive, Thinking, Judging) are often "haunted by their past" is a generalization and may not apply to all individuals of this personality type. However, there are some reasons why some INTJs may appear to be more affected by their past experiences:
Introverted Intuition (Ni): INTJs have dominant Ni as part of their cognitive function stack. Ni is a perceptive function that tends to analyze and interpret patterns and meanings from past experiences. This can lead INTJs to deeply reflect on their past and how it has shaped their understanding of the world.
Analytical nature: INTJs are known for their analytical and strategic thinking. They may dwell on past events to learn from them and make better decisions in the future.
Perfectionism: INTJs often strive for excellence and can be critical of themselves. They might revisit past mistakes or missed opportunities in their pursuit of personal growth and improvement.
Difficulty letting go: Some INTJs may have a hard time letting go of negative experiences or traumas, and this can lead to a lingering effect on their psyche.
Long-term planning: As forward-thinking individuals, INTJs may look back at their past to see how their decisions and actions have influenced their long-term plans and goals.
Emotions and vulnerability: Despite their rational and logical demeanor, INTJs have emotions, and they may process these emotions internally, leading to reflection on past experiences that have had a strong emotional impact.
It's crucial to recognize that personality types are a simplified way to understand certain patterns of behavior, and individual differences within each type are vast. Not all INTJs will share these characteristics, and some may be more adept at processing and moving on from their past experiences. As with any personality trait, personal growth and development can influence how someone deals with their past and shapes their future.