Currently, a large number of concepts have taken shape that are trying to explain what temperament is. Let's consider them in more detail.
The most ancient is the humoral theory of Hippocrates. The doctor tried to explain what temperament is, linking it with the properties of a particular fluid that prevails in the body. If a person has more blood, then this is sanguine, bile is choleric, black bile is melancholic. The presence of mucus (lymph, phlegm) indicates a phlegmatic type.
Subsequently, constitutional concepts appeared explaining what temperament is, connecting it with the structure of the body.
Firstly, the theory of E. Kretschmer. The scientist proved that people who have a certain type of physique (dysplastic, asthenic, picnic and leptosomatic) have a special type of temperament (Ixotim, Cyclotime and Schizotim). In addition, they are genetically predisposed to certain mental illnesses.
Secondly, the concept of W. Sheldon. The scientist proceeded from the fact that there is a somatotype - a physique that is described using parameters such as ectomorphy, mesomorphy and endomorphy. They correspond to certain types of temperament. We are talking about cerebrotonics, somatotonics and viscerotonics.
The physiological foundations of temperament were laid in the works of I.P. Pavlova. He created the first scientific neurodynamic theory. It is based on the doctrine of the significant role and dynamic properties of the central nervous system. This is the only body system that has regulatory and universal abilities.
The scientist identified the following basic properties of NS:
- force;
- mobility;
- equilibrium.
They occur in the processes of excitation and inhibition. As a result, the scientist among the available combinations of these properties identified the basic combinations that form the types of GNI. As a result, I.P. Pavlov still managed to answer the urgent question of what temperament is:
- sanguine has a balanced, strong and mobile type of nervous system;
- frregmatic - calm (inert), balanced and strong type;
- choleric has a mobile, unbalanced and strong type of nervous system ;
- melancholic - unbalanced and weak.
Let us consider in more detail the characteristic that I.P. gave to these types Pavlov. Her character and temperament are closely related.
Sanguine has a high neuropsychic activity, as well as a wealth and variety of facial expressions and movements. Such a person is emotional, impressive and labile. But his experiences are shallow, and mobility can lead to a lack of concentration.
Choleric has a high level of neuropsychic activity. Such a person is usually sharp and swift in his movements. It is also characterized by impulsiveness, strength, severity of experiences, emotionality and imbalance. With poor education, the choleric becomes unrestrained, quick-tempered, incapable of self-control.
Phlegmatic has a low level of activity. He is difficult to switch, slow and calm in his actions, facial expressions and speech. A person with a predominance of phlegmatic temperament is distinguished by a depth of feelings and a constant mood. But with an unfavorable upbringing, he develops lethargy, weakness and poverty of emotions, as well as a tendency to perform familiar actions.
Melancholy is distinguished by muffled and restrained speech and motor skills. In addition, its pronounced features are: emotional reactivity, stability and depth of feelings with a dim external expression. A melancholic is usually emotionally vulnerable, withdrawn, alienated and prone to deep inner feelings, even of situations that do not deserve it.