Reflection on human temperament behavior model (DISC)
In training course, four human temperament model of behavior (DISC) was taught or mentioned a few times by different trainers. They are defined into 4 quadrants as below:
D (Eagle) - Driver, result oriented
I (Peacock) - Influencer, enthusiastic
S (Dove) - Supportive, accommodating
C (Owl) - Calculative, rule bound
The 4 quadrants behavior was modeled based on two dimensions: people oriented? vs. task-oriented, active vs. passive type.
This looks perfect on paper but a few self-tests revealed the inaccuracy of the theory. In the business world, your behavior will be D or I type in front of your junior but S or C type before your boss. In your personal life, your behavior could be varying depending on who you are with or under what circumstances. As the trainer herself admitted voluntarily, she is D type before her daughter but S person before her Mother-In-Law in complete opposite.
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Why this happens? If we examine the model more closely, the horizontal axis of people vs. task oriented illustrates your people handling skill, or emotional intelligence which is well measured by EQ. We know a human's EQ is relatively stable despite varying circumstances, it’s a good indicator to predict your behavior in the model.
The vertical axis of active vs. passive type is however not a good indicator of people’s behavior. It may change depending on many factors such as:
- Who you are with: daughter vs MIL in previous example;
- Your preference or interest against the task: kids are known more active in completing homework of the subjects they like vs. dislike;
- The task itself: you are active and quick for urgent & important task vs procrastinate for less urgent & unimportant task
Conclusion: The model is not tested reliable, and can not be proven scientifically from my analysis. So please use it with a pinch of salt in real life.