Psychology

The four views of personality

An individuals personality is viewed as temperament and this is unique to every individual. The four main personalities include sanguine, choleric, phlegmatic and melancholic. There are basic characteristics of the various personalities and these are the focus of this paper. I conclude this discussion by identifying my personality as a phlegmatic although there are melancholic characteristics. Introduction

Personality encompasses the unique thought pattern of individuals as expressed in their emotional and behavioral characteristics. There are four temperaments including sanguine, choleric, phlegmatic and the melancholy personality (Mens Fraternity, 2010). These are also viewed in terms of extraversion-introversion as well as neuroticism and emotional stability (Boeree, 2006).

A sanguine is usually a popular individual who is able to effectively create friends from initial contact. A sanguine is also enthusiastic and is able to bring excitement in the lives of others. This person is therefore recognized as outgoing for they are moved by the need to have fun in life. A choleric is on the other hand powerful personality with leadership skills. An individual with a choleric temperament is good at giving instructions and motivating people to act. This person is therefore regarded as authoritative and has a convincing ability. A choleric wants to see things being done and they also need to be excited (Mens Fraternity, 2010).
 
A phlegmatic individual is a peaceful person who always wants to see everyone relaxed and calm. Persons of phlegmatic personality are effective listeners and composed. They are therefore best described as people who can be believed and they require being restful and quiet. Lastly, a melancholic individual will like perfectionism and therefore they are good at planning. A melancholic is a do it right person who is excellent in describing things and events in details. A melancholic is also sensitive to the needs of others and will be well described as sincere and accurate persons who want to see orderliness (Mens Fraternity, 2010).

In conclusion, the phlegmatic personality best describes my personality. However it does not seem to sum up my personality since I also present the melancholic characteristics of being sensitive to the needs of others as well as being orderly. Rarely do the other two personalities (choleric and sanguine) present elements of my personality although they are helpful in drawing a clear line between my personality and that of others.