Temperament Tendencies-The "DISC" Of It: Part 1, The Biology Of Temperament Styles
by, Jeannie Fitzgerald
Jeanine is a Certified Human Behavior Consultant and Specialist, Certified Educator, Master Trainer and Author of “The Dance of Interaction”, a book in which the concepts of temperament profiles are clearly and joyously explained.
Temperament is the way we are wired genetically and it influences how we live life. It is the actual, measurable frame of reference in which we develop a "style for life" called our behavioral style. Behavioral styles are predictable patterns of relating, acting and interacting with the world that surrounds us. While we all live under the same sky, we all have different horizons.
Knowing our child's temperament offers insight into how best to connect, support and guide him or her, beginning in the formative years from birth to the age of three. Some children have higher intensity of reaction, while others have lower intensity. Some children are more adaptable to novel situations, and change during their day while others cling to the familiar and are slower to adjust. Some children persist in the face of obstacles, while others are more comfortable withdrawing from or avoiding challenges.
The application of temperament insights empowers us to maintain respect for who we, and our children, authentically are, rather than expecting, wishing or imposing who we think they should be. One temperament type is not better than other. Each type has tendencies that can be described as "easy or difficult." And, no one is fixed to one type. We are a blend of all four great approaches to life, however two types are stronger than the remaining two.
One four-model approach to behavior is DISC. Within the model, there are two dimensions that combine in a way that makes us unique - pace and priority. To discover your combination, we ask two questions:
Question 1: Am I more outgoing or reserved?
Question 2: Am I more task-oriented or people-oriented?
The blending of these tendencies helps us identify whether we lean toward the D, I, S, or C type temperament.
The "D" Type is characterized as the dominant, determined doer. It is the blend of an outgoing and task-oriented orientation. This child prefers to be with other movers and shakers and looks for opportunities to be in charge and get things done quickly.
The "I" Type is characterized as the inspirational, interactive influencer. It is the blend of an outgoing and people-oriented orientation. This child prefers to be on the go and looks for opportunities to have fun with friends.
The "S" Type is characterized as the steady, sensitive supporter. It is the blend of a reserved and people-oriented orientation. This child prefers to take things at a slower pace and more comfortable associating with quieter people, in smaller groups.
The "C" Type is characterized as the cautious, conscientious contemplator. It is the blend of a reserved and task-oriented orientation. This child prefers an environment where things are "right and fair" and looks for ways to be more efficient.
Reaching the heart and mind of a child is the goal of every parent. Understanding temperament is a step in that direction.
To learn more about temperament and the DISC model, we recommend the
Part two of this blog will explore the concept of "goodness of fit."
These are the ways we can adjust our parenting to reach the mind of the child we have in our lives.