The uncompensated flexible adjustments are symbolized as [f=Fu] and [f+=Fu+]. In connection with these orientations, the theory makes an exception of the usual rule that the plus sign is an indication of more extensive lack of compensation, and, therefore, of less control. The [f+=Fu+], since he has certain special difficulties, cannot be regarded as merely a more extreme form of [f=Fu]. For this reason, a general description of the overall characteristics of the "Fu" adaptations is unwarranted. A description of the traits which are manifested by an [f=Fu], however, can be given. The special qualities of the [f+=Fu+] adjustment are reserved for the next section.
The [f=Fu] is a basic adjustment state in which the individual has proceeded through childhood essentially on the basis of his primitive flexibility, and has not disciplined or controlled it at the time of adolescence. As a result, he has remained individualistic, sensitive, original, and confused. He is over-responsive, distractable, and characterized by rapid shifts in interest. He has not acquired the ability to learn and accept rules and regulations without understanding, and tends to resent attempts to force him to comply with them.
The externalized [f=Fu] inclines to be over-active and extremely responsive to external events, manifesting his tendency to constantly shifting interests within this area. Because he is an Externalizer, he will be quite overt in the expression of his "F" traits. If he is an Internalizer, on the other hand, he will be much less obvious. He will nevertheless be over-active in his own way. He will be extremely responsive In Intellectual areas, shifting his interests continuously within that sphere. Both the externalized and internalized "F" will oppose external efforts to restrict their activities. Their resentment is apt to take the form of negativism or, possibly, cynicism.
Unlike the [r=Ru], the [f=Fu] has a well-developed capacity to see himself in relation to others, and manifests considerable insight and understanding in interpersonal involvements. His general over-sensitivity has also persisted. Further, he has carried into adolescence the acute feelings of inferiority which arose from his childhood difficulties in learning, and he is still relatively incapable of learning by imitation and rote. Not only does he suffer from inferiority feelings, but he is also usually painfully aware of them. His awareness enables him to control them to some extent, but, because of their intensity, they may become disabling.
An [f=Fu] adjustment provides an individual with the advantages of creativity, adaptability in a variety of new situations, and flexibility in modifying behavior on the basis of new experiences. The major hazards in his orientation are his marked tendencies toward confusion, his over-reactivity, and his strong feelings of inferiority. He is also likely to be over-emotional if he is externalized, and direct his emotionality outward, expressing it in characteristically overt form. If he is internalized, he will turn it inward, expressing it in inertia and apathy.
The [f+=Fu+] orientation, according to the theory, is a special case. Because it is an uncompensated state, the individual is still responding primarily on the basis of his primitive tendency. However, the individual is also extremely controlled in its expression. As a result, the [f+=Fu+] adjustment is, perhaps, the most tension-producing of the orientations.
The [f+=Fu+] is extremely creative and highly sensitive. If he is an Externalizer, he will be very aware of, and responsive to, events that are occurring around him. If he is an Internalizer, he will be highly responsive and sensitive in his ideational activities. The externalized [f+=Fu+] must cope with a particularly difficult problem, since he must find socially Role Adaptive activities in which to express his opposing tendencies, both to express and control his intense sensuality. Since it is most unlikely that he will find suitable outlets for such highly conflicted tendencies, an [f+=Fu+] orientation is maintained only through great effort, and is in constant danger of disruption. The individual may, in fact, withdraw from potentially disturbing situations, aware of their threat to his tenuous organization. In this case, he may appear to be highly complacent and unresponsive. If, on the other hand, he engages in overt activities in an attempt to solve his conflicts, he is prone to panic.
The [f+=Fu+] adaptation is potentially extremely creative, and capable of engaging in imaginative and original activities. The individual responds quickly, appropriately, and effectively to the needs of others, and can, in many cases, anticipate them. The stability of his orientation, however, is in danger because of the extreme tension by which it is upheld. The inherent productivity of the [f+=Fu+] is also apt to be curtailed by his tendency toward bitterness and cynicism, as well as by the effects of the strong inferiority feelings from which he suffers.