Temperament

Presented by

Donna J. Habenicht, Ed.D.

What is temperament?

“Temperament is the behavioral style of an individual child—the how (manner) of his behavior rather than the what (content) or why (motivation).”

Stella Chess

Temperament Characteristics

Activity Level Slow -------------------------------------Fast

Temperament Characteristics

RhythmicityRegular--------------------------------Irregular

Temperament Characteristics

Approach-WithdrawalCautious-----------------------------Impulsive

Temperament Characteristics

AdaptabilityHigh----------------------------------------Low

Temperament Characteristics

Intensity of ReactionsHigh----------------------------------------Low

Temperament Characteristics

Threshold of ResponsivenessLow, quick-----------------------High, slow

Temperament Characteristics

Mood Pessimistic------------------------Optimistic

Temperament Characteristics

DistractabilityLow---------------------------------------High

Attention SpanLengthy--------------------------------Limited

Three Types of Kids

EasySlow-to-warm-upDifficult

Easy

Happy, cheerful Adapts easily Smiling and friendly Optimistic Moderately active Cooperative Relaxed, easy going Moderate emotions

Slow-to-warm-up

Timid Fearful Anxious Tense Shy Uncooperative

Difficult

Very emotional Resists changes Moody Pessimistic Very active Quick trigger temper Fidgets and wiggles

Other Kids

Have their own unique combination of temperament characteristics.

Grace in Action

“Let the teacher remember that it is those …who have a disagreeable temperament, who are rough, stubborn, sullen, that most need our love, compassion, and help.Those who most try our patiencemost need our love.”

Ellen G. WhiteCounsels to Teachers, p. 267