Handout D: Temperament Characteristics
Intensity 1 2 3 4 5 Deep and powerful emotional reactions-laughs and cries loudly and energetically. Quiet and reserved responses-rarely gets upset. Persistence 1 2 3 4 5 Finds it difficulty to stop an activity to let go of feelings-can stay with a task for a long time. Finds it easy to move on to new activities or to let go of feelings-transitions easily. Sensitivity 1 2 3 4 5 Very sensitive to noise, emotion, temperature, taste, texture. Exceptionally tuned in to others' feelings Can wear any kind of fabric, doesn't mind a lot of noise or activity. Not bothered by odors or new foods. Not too much tuned in to others' stress. Perceptiveness 1 2 3 4 5 Very aware of people, colors, noises, etc., easily distracted. Notices things most people miss. Not extremely aware of surroundings. Can remember and complete multiple directions. Sometimes misses detail. Adaptability 1 2 3 4 5 Slow to adjust to changes in schedule or routine-does not easily adapt to new settings, new foods, etc. Quick to adapt to changes in schedule or routine. Flexible with meals, sleep times-not upset by surprises. Regularity 1 2 3 4 5 Rarely sleeps at the same time. hungry at different times, no pattern to bowel movements. Very regular about need for and times of sleep, regular meal times, predictable times for bowel movements. Energy 1 2 3 4 5 Always on the move and busy. Finds it difficult to sit still for too long. Needs a lot of physical activity. Content being quiet and still. Can sit and play or work for extended periods of time. First Reaction 1 2 3 4 5 First reaction to a new idea, activity, place or person is to reject it. Watches and waits before engaging in something new. Jumps right in, engages with new activities, situations and people quickly. Doesn't hesitate in new situations. Mood 1 2 3 4 5 Serious and often discontent. Tends to see the drawbacks and downside of situations. Usually in a good mood with a positive attitude toward things. Optimistic and content.