Temperament and ADHD

Paradigm Shift: ADHD vs. Sanguine Temperament

ADHD (Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)

Inattention
Lack of concentration
Disorganization
Easily distracted
Forgetful
Impulsive
Restless
Very talkative
Interrupts


Sanguine Temperament

Inattention
Lack of concentration
Disorganization
Easily distracted
Forgetful
Impulsive
Restless
Very talkative
Interrupts (Egotistical)
Weak-willed
Emotionally unstable
Unpredictable
Circumstantial
Joyful/Cheerful
Optimistic
Passionate
Outgoing/Attention-seeking
Responsive to emotions
Charismatic
Compassionate
Impractical/Dreamer
Storyteller
Childlike
Memory for smells & colors
Makes friends easily
Doesn’t hold grudges
Loves people




The four temperaments are different clusters of behavioral traits, and one of them is dominant in each individual, regardless of age. Hippocrates named them, and the Greek doctor, Galen, around A.D. 200, defined the characteristics of each one. The four temperaments are: Sanguine, Choleric, Melancholy, and Phlegmatic.


The traits of the Sanguine temperament are listed above.
Some variations of traits within this temperament may be highly visible and others may be subdued. The visible traits may change in intensity over time, and will be affected by life events which affect character. Character, which encompasses your beliefs and the values you hold dear, is shaped by ALL circumstances in your lifetime.

This is an attempt to show positive aspects of self instead of focusing on negative behavioral traits. Positive traits can be strengthened by encouragement from others.

This is not an attempt to do away with ADHD, but rather a call for it to be a diagnosed based on physical impairments, such as harm to self or others due to behavioral symptoms. Attention should, of course also be paid to limited social interaction and slow academic progress. Limited social interaction is not healthy for the Sanguine, and there may be another dysfunction.

What Sanguines need:
1. Constant encouragement. They need to know that they are doing a good job. They want to be accepted by other people.

2. Patience from people of other temperaments. They can be forgetful, and may need to be reminded of certain tasks they need to accomplish. They are passionate starters, but may quit if they aren’t encouraged.

3. Positive reinforcement. Telling them that you will let other people, especially their parents, know how good they have been will bring about positive changes in behavior.

4. To tell their stories. They know themselves very well and are able to laugh at themselves. They see the good in other people. This is a trait that people of other temperaments can learn from. They may tell grand tales due to their creative style, so you must weigh their words accordingly.

5. Understanding from people of other temperaments. Sanguines are very passionate people, and they fixate on certain ideas or topics. It is best to find out what those fixations are, for hitting their hot buttons the wrong way can bring on an outburst of anger. They are not as unpredictable as they may seem. Use these hot buttons to your advantage.



So you may see the difference between temperaments, and use them to your advantage, I will show you the other temperaments. I hope that you may see where you fit in.


Choleric Temperament

Hot-tempered
Cruel
Impetuous
Self-sufficient
Impatient
Born eader
Dynamic
Practical
Compulsive need for change
Must correct wrongs
Unemotional
Strong-willed
Independent
Optimistic
Not discouraged easily
Confident
Goal-oriented
Knows the right answers
Can see the whole picture
Quickly moves to action
Thrives on opposition
Little need for friends
Leads and organizes
Excels in emergencies
Delegates work
Motivator
Long-term thinker



Melancholy Temperament

Self-centered
Pessimistic
Moody
Revengeful
Skeptical
Sensitive to anguish of others
Analytical
Deep thinker
Self-introspective
Artistic or musical
Self-sacrificing
Poetic and philosophical
Appreciates beauty
Perfectionist with high standards
Detail conscious
Neat and tidy
Organized
Sees the problem
Seeks creative solutions
Must finish what is started
Content to stay behind the scenes
Likes charts, numbers, and lists
Cautious to make friends
Will listen to complaints
Problem solver for others
Moved to tears with compassion
Tries not to raise attention
Serious
Conscientious
Studious
Reflective
Not practical--Dreamer



Phlegmatic temperament

Slow and Lazy
Teaser/Sarcastic
Selfish
Stubborn
Indecisive
Detached observer
Calm and collected
Quiet
Witty
Sympathetic
Kind
Inoffensive
Hides emotions
Reconciled to life
Not in a hurry
Takes the good with the bad
Practical
Dry sense of humor
Mediator
Avoids confrontation and conflict
Cool under pressure
Takes the easiest way
Good listener
Likes to watch people
Compassionate and concerned
Pleasant
Good administrative ability
Intuitive
Dependable
Efficient




Further Reading:

LaHaye, Tim. Spirit-Controlled Temperament. Tyndale House Publishers, Inc. Wheaton, IL: 1982.

Littauer, Florence. Personality Plus. Fleming H. Revell—a division of Baker Publishing Group. Grand Rapids, MI: 1992.

----Personality Plus for Parents: Understanding What Makes Your Child Tick. Baker Publishing Group. Grand Rapids, MI: 2000.