Temperament, Research Paper Example

Each person has his or her own distinct temperament; this is the term used to describe the specific or distinct mental or physical character determined by the relative proportions of the moods according to medieval physiology (Temperament, 2012.) There are four categories of temperament that are generally associated with human behavior. This paper will summarize those features, presenting conclusions about the research obtained.

Each of the four temperaments is attached to a different personality type, beginning in ancient times. They are:

• The sanguine temperament, which is essentially impulsive and seeks pleasure; people with this character trait are extroverted and charming (Richards.) They are comfortable in social groups, are often very creative and frequently engage in daydreaming. They also need privacy, and often struggle with procrastination. On the other hand, they can be sensitive, empathic, and pensive.
• The choleric temperament, which is basically ambitious and demonstrates leadership qualities. They have a great deal of aggression, enthusiasm, and try to promote that in others. They tend to dominate others, taking charge of many situations. In addition, they may also fall into sudden or chronic depression, demonstrating moodiness as well.
• The melancholy temperament, an introverted person whose natural style is analytic, as well as being a perfectionist. This temperament ranges from high to low, from gloom to euphoria, and such a person may opt for a challenging life career that involves personal sacrifice, such as a doctor or a scientist (Warfield.)
• The phlegmatic temperamental is steady, easy-going, and not easily upset. This person is very easy to interact with, often using humor to illustrate his or her beliefs. These people are often unmotivated and appear to lack ambition. Beneath the mild-mannered exterior, the phlegmatic person is frequently stubborn and fearful.

Learning about the different temperaments is extremely interesting and useful because it makes one tends to fit his acquaintances and family members as well as oneself into the category delineated. The descriptions of these groups are quite detailed in the websites viewed, presenting very thorough profiles of the people in one’s life.

References

Richards, D. (n.d.). The Four Temperaments. Retrieved September 18, 2012, from Organizational Development Portal: http://www.odportal.com/personality/four-temperaments.htm

Temperamental. (2012). Retrieved September 18, 2012, from The Merriam-Webster Dictionary: http://www.merriam-webster.com/medical/temperament

Warfield, H. (n.d.). Temperament and Personality. Retrieved September 18, 2012, from Self-Growth.com: http://www.selfgrowth.com/articles/Warfield2.html