In class we discussed the idea of behavior and personality being different in their rate of flexibility. We agreed that behaviors can be changed and that personalities were more stagnant. This can be backed up by phenomena in psychology such as group behaviors drastically changing in social situations to fit norms. Psychological studies have shown trends in personality traits such as friendliness and eagerness towards novel experiences generally do not change as we age.
Bolton on the contrary, focuses more on the unconscious realm of behavior. That it is in a sense innate and and inflexible. He chooses to categorize the personality types into 4 quadrants of, "People Styles". These 4 quadrants are Analytical, Driver, Amiable, and Expressive. These are based off of levels of Assertiveness and Responsiveness. I agree mostly with my scoring of an Expressive. I tend to wear my emotions on my sleeve as well as being aware of my ability to assert myself.
I have also taken my fair share of assessments that are more personality than behavior based. Every once in awhile I take the 16 personalities Myers Briggs quiz as a way to check in with myself to see what has happened or changed. Thus far, I have scored the same ENFJ every single consecutive time with little to no variance in each category. I'm not quite sure if it is better that I have been consistent over the past 2 years or worse that I have not fluctuated at all. Whether that supports the theories of Bolton or Psychology's Big 5 personality trait theories I'm not so sure.
These tools are incredibly useful for my future careers. It is in self exploration that we really grow as employees, co workers, as people with purpose. As they say, the key to understanding others is in understanding ourselves. Introspection is quote the powerful tool. Sometimes putting yourself in a box is a great step in the process of unpacking who it is YOU really are. (Peep that metaphor)
Bolton, R., & Bolton, D. G. (2009). People Styles at Work-- and Beyond: Making Bad Relationships
Good and Good Relationships Better. New York: American Management Association.
