From Wikisocion
Model A is the socionic model of the psyche elaborated by Aushra Augusta. It includes:
- rules for positioning the 8 different information elements in a framework of as many different slots (called functions) to create 16 distinct type formulas
- general characteristics of each function that apply to the information element in that position regardless of type
Part 1 (the syntax) is rigorously defined and is often referred to alone as "Model A," but is an empty shell without part 2 (the semantics), which imbues the model with empirical content. There can be no standard description of part 2, so it is formulated differently by different authors. Augusta's foundational works set down the basics for socionists' understanding of Model A.
With Model A as an abstract framework, intertype relations can be understood and analyzed, and type descriptions can be generated. However, as a rule some practical observation and introspection is necessary to understand the model.
The relationship structure in socionics is a direct consequence of Model A.
Structure
Model A is composed of 8 functions, which are filled by 8 information elements. Functions are designated by cells that have a standard numbering from 1 to 8. Elements are designated by geometric shapes:
Each type perceives and processes all of the aspects of reality, but with varying degrees of clarity, depth, and comfort. Model A describes the perceptual and behavioral characteristics associated with each position. By combining the characteristics of an element with those of one of the eight positions of Model A, we can generalize traits and attitudes shared by the two socionic types with the element in that position. In practice, the true nature of the functions is subtle and difficult to discern without a thorough understanding of each and every type in its particularity. By observation one may gradually form a rich and realistic picture of the functions (and information elements) themselves.
Across the socion
Information elements fill functions to make 16 valid Models A. These represent the 16 types of the socion.
To view a description of how a type uses an information element, click on the symbol in that type's Model A.
Blocks
Model A divides into four blocks (or rows) containing two functions apiece. Each block contains one rational and one irrational element, one extroverted and one introverted element. Traditionally it is thought that the functions of each block are somehow connected and codependent with each other. Other socionists maintain that the functions manifest themselves separately.
Augusta chose the terms Ego, Super-ego, Id, and Super-id by analogy with Freud's model of the psyche. However, the meaning of the terms is somewhat different than in psychoanalysis.
Positioning rules
There are certain rules for positioning the elements in Model A. As soon as you place an element in one of the functions, you automatically place three others and are left with only two options for the rest of the functions. This is because there are certain relationships between the elements. For instance, part of what makes 
a leading function is a certain suggestiveness to 
and subdued use of 'rival' elements 
and 
.
Here are the rules for positioning elements in Model A:
Given these rules, each element occupies one function — that is, a type gives a one-to-one mapping between functions and elements.
See also
Links
Extroverted intuition
Introverted intuition
Extroverted sensing
Introverted sensing
