Can the four temperaments give you insight into your personality?

You may have heard of the Four Temperaments, an ancient theory that sorts human personality characteristics into four main categories based on differing levels of bodily fluids. The four temperament types generally include choleric, melancholic, sanguine, and phlegmatic. While this theory can be interesting, it’s not necessarily supported by current research. For professional insight into your temperament, personality, and mental health, consider scheduling a session with a licensed therapist online or in person.

What is temperament?

Before we look more closely at the Four Temperaments theory, it may be useful to discuss what the word “temperament” means. 

In other words, a person’s temperament may represent the aspects of their personality that are inherent and biological. 

Although the word “temperament” is sometimes used as a synonym for “personality,” a person’s personality can consist of a wide variety of features and contributing factors, including temperament.

Current research suggests that a person’s temperament may be influenced by genes, environmental factors, or both. An estimated 20% to 60% of a person’s temperament is believed to be dependent on genetics, and childhood environmental factors can influence which other genes are activated. 

A variety of models have been developed over the years to explain the nuances of human temperament. The Four Temperaments Model is generally one of the earliest. 

The four temperaments explained

The Four Temperaments theory can be defined as a proto-psychological theory described by the ancient Greek physician Hippocrates. It is generally based on an ancient medical concept known as humorism. 

According to Hippocrates, certain human moods, physical illnesses, behaviors, and emotions may be correlated with four bodily fluids referred to as “humors,” and imbalances between these humors may be responsible for illnesses and other ailments. 

In general, Hippocrates’s four temperaments are each correlated with either phlegm, blood, black bile, or yellow bile. Theoretically, differing proportions of these fluids could lead to personality differences. 

The four temperaments, as proposed by Hippocrates, normally included the following:

Phlegmatic

Associated with the bodily fluid phlegm, the phlegmatic temperament was proposed by Hippocrates to feature traits like passiveness, introversion, thoughtfulness, and peacefulness. Those with phlegmatic temperaments are said to be easygoing, relaxed, and quiet. 

Melancholic

Hippocrates associated the melancholic temperament with black bile. According to his theory, those with a melancholic temperament tend to be detail-oriented, dependable, and introverted. Other proposed aspects of the melancholic temperament may include being patient and fond of routines, with a tendency toward perfectionism and mood swings. 

Sanguine

Associated with the bodily fluid of blood, the sanguine temperament was proposed to include traits such as a lack of discipline, impulsivity, a desire to be helpful, and a sense of optimism. The sanguine temperament has also been associated with addictive behaviors, sociability, and liveliness. 

Choleric

The choleric temperament was associated with yellow bile. According to Hippocrates, those with choleric temperaments could be prone to aggression, optimism, excitability, and restlessness. Additionally, the choleric temperament is purported to be associated with leadership qualities, extraversion, independence, and pride. 

Considering that, traditionally, each temperament was associated with a specific bodily fluid, it was also theorized that all human beings may possess aspects of each temperament in varying quantities. Some individuals could even have a secondary temperament—for example, choleric-sanguine or phlegmatic-melancholy. 

Can the four temperaments tell you about your personality?

Modern medical science has generally debunked the concept of humors as a determiner of personality differences. Since then, more contemporary theories have been proposed as a means of exploring temperament. 

Still, the Four Temperaments Model may provide an interesting lens through which to view the idea of temperament. However, it may also be important to keep in mind that no two people are exactly alike. Thus, it may not be possible to categorize human personality traits according to a single framework. 

Understanding your temperament through therapy

In general, temperament theory has undergone many changes since it first emerged, and it is constantly evolving. If you have questions or concerns about certain aspects of your personality, speaking to a licensed therapist may be beneficial. In therapy, you can gain clarity, address challenges, and develop the skills to support your mental health and overall well-being. 

Still, attending in-person talk therapy may not always be easy. For those without insurance or whose insurance doesn’t cover it, therapy may be prohibitively expensive. Others may have busy schedules, work commitments, or other conflicts that make commuting to a therapist’s office logistically challenging. Temperament could also play a role. More introverted people might feel hesitant to speak to a stranger about personal matters. 

Benefits of online therapy

If you’re experiencing any of the situations described above, online therapy platforms like BetterHelp may offer a more accessible alternative. With remote therapy, you can attend sessions from the location of your choice, with prices starting at $65 per week. Online therapy can also put individuals at ease when talking about sensitive topics like ones temperament or personality by offering the choice between videoconference, phone call, and online chat.

Effectiveness of online therapy

Online therapy can be an effective and cost-efficient alternative to in-person therapy. One 2017 study found internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to be an effective treatment for a range of mental health conditions, such as bipolar disorder, phobias, generalized anxiety disorder, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder.