In situations where others might rush to make a decision, you tend to take your time and consider your options carefully. During a conflict, you may find yourself quietly taking a step back to allow others to argue, or you might avoid taking sides in order to restore the peace. If these experiences sound all too familiar, you may have phlegmatic personality traits.
According to the four temperament theory, phlegmatic is characterized by calmness, prudence, and stable mood. In this article, we will take a detailed look at phlegmatic temperament, review the strengths and weaknesses associated with this temperament, and provide an overview of the concept of the four temperaments.
What is Phlegmatic Temperament?
The term phlegmatic is used to describe a specific temperament type. It is one of four fundamental personality types, which include sanguine, choleric, and melancholic [1]. To find out personality differences and which of the four temperaments fits you best take four temperament test.
The concept of these four temperaments dates back to ancient Greek medicine, particularly the theories of Hippocrates, who believed that human behavior was influenced by the balance of our bodily fluids (blood, yellow bile, black bile, and phlegm), often referred to as humours.
Aelius Galenus, a Roman physician, expanded upon Hippocrates’ idea and linked the excess or absence of those fluids to the four temperament types [2]. In this context, if you had an excess of phlegm, you were considered to have a phlegmatic temperament, which was described as calm, composed, and thoughtful.
Although there is no scientific research linking bodily fluids as a factor in determining temperament or personality development, the concept of personality “types” and temperament remains a highly complex and hotly debated topic in psychology and psychiatry.
The four temperaments concept also offers the idea of personality blends, which occur quite frequently. For example, phlegmatic blends refer to combinations of the phlegmatic personality with other temperaments, creating unique personalities such as phlegmatic choleric, phlegmatic sanguine, and phlegmatic with melancholic temperament.
They are seen as reliable, patient, and empathetic people who may not be quick to express their reactions but instead take a more measured and cautious approach to life. Also, people with a phlegmatic temperament are unperturbed by the stresses or chaos that may affect other people.
What Is The Difference Between Phlegmatic Personality and Temperament?
Although these terms are often used synonymously, there are specific differences between personality and temperament, according to researchers from the University of Pennsylvania [3]. Temperament is the combination of mental, physical, and emotional traits of a person. It is inborn and has a natural predisposition, so it’s much harder to adjust your temperament.
On the other hand, personality is distinctive and acquired on top of temperament. It’s developed over the years. Personality is influenced by your temperament, as well as other factors such as education, socialization, culture, experiences, etc.
6 Key Characteristics of a Phlegmatic Personality
- Introverted
- Calm and Unemotional
- Reliable
- Patient and Tolerant
- Agreeable
- Empathetic and Compassionate
1. Introverted
People with a phlegmatic temperament are typically considered introverts, with a strong desire for alone time. However, when they choose to socialize, they do so quite easily given their calm and easy going nature. They tend to enjoy spending time in smaller, more intimate groups rather than large social gatherings. They prefer to avoid the limelight and find themselves as natural active listeners in conversations.
For example, a person with a phlegmatic temperament at a party might be the one who quietly observes the conversations around them, enjoying the company of friends without the need to dominate the discussion. They may even retreat to a quieter corner if the social scene becomes too overwhelming or demanding.
Are you introverted extrovert or extroverted introvert? Check out the main signs to learn the difference.
2. Calm and Unemotional
A phlegmatic personality is also characterized by a steady and peaceful nature. They are not aggressive people. Typically, they have smooth, slow speech and minimal gesticulation while their words and actions are measured.
People with phlegmatic traits rarely get overly excited or stressed, even in situations that might cause others to worry. This quality allows them to remain clear-headed and optimistic, even during times of uncertainty, chaos, or pressure.
3. Reliable
One of the distinctive phlegmatic traits is dependability and consistency. They stick to their commitments, follow through on promises, and perform well in situations that require long-term dedication. They value stability and reliability, both in themselves and in others.
To illustrate this point, a person with a phlegmatic temperament working in a corporate office might be the type of employee who reliably shows up to work every day on time, completes their tasks diligently, and does not seek recognition for their hard work. They may not be the most vocal or enthusiastic team members, but they can be relied upon to get the job done.
Sometimes, a phlegmatic personality type may give the impression of being uninterested and uninitiated, but in fact, they are distinguished by their ability to methodically follow a set goal and wait for the right moment.
Besides, people with this personality type can be highly reliable when it comes to completing tasks that require patience and persistence. In work life, they may not seek leadership roles or be highly ambitious. However, people with a phlegmatic personality type are loyal, detail-focused, and goal-oriented.
If you’re wondering what career is right for you, this career quiz can become a great start for you to find a profession that’s a good fit for your goals.
4. Patient and Tolerant
Usually, people who have a phlegmatic temperament might not be easily frustrated by delays, mistakes, or inconveniences. Their calm and patient nature allows them to approach difficult situations with a slow and steady attitude.
They can also be highly tolerant of others’ shortcomings and tend to avoid jumping to conclusions or expressing negative emotions.
For example, being a parent, a phlegmatic person might be the one who remains patient when a child makes a mistake or behaves inappropriately. Rather than reacting harshly, the phlegmatic person would take the time to explain the mistake and offer guidance gently.
5. Agreeable
People with a phlegmatic personality generally prefer to maintain peace and harmony in their relationships. They may avoid confrontation and try to resolve conflicts quietly, prioritizing compromise and mutual understanding over asserting their point or winning an argument.
Their ability to avoid escalation makes them a stabilizing force in many social and professional situations. They often prefer to let small issues go unnoticed to prevent unnecessary tension.
6. Empathetic and Compassionate
People with phlegmatic traits are deeply empathetic and compassionate people who know how to be emotionally available. They are good listeners and tend to approach people with care and understanding.
While they may not always be the most expressive in showing their true feelings, they often provide strong emotional support to those in need.
For example, a friend with phlegmatic personality type might be the one who listens attentively when someone is going through a difficult time, giving practical advice, even if they don’t offer grand gestures or emotional outbursts. They are good companions, and their calming presence can be what others find most comforting.
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Pros & Cons of Phlegmatic Personality Temperament
Below are the pros and cons that come with having a phlegmatic personality:
4 Pros of the Phlegmatic Personality
- Consistent and Dependable: One of the positive traits of phlegmatic temperament is their reliability and consistency, which makes them trusted colleagues, friends, and partners. People with a phlegmatic temperament can get the job done without drama or complication.
- Great Listeners and Supporters: Due to their empathy, they offer thoughtful responses that can help others feel heard and understood. Their ability to listen fuels intentional connection with others.
- Conflict Resolution Skills: Because they tend to avoid conflict, people with phlegmatic personality traits are skilled in reducing tense situations. They know how to remain composed in the face of disagreement and help bring people together for resolution.
- Balanced and Grounded: Their steady nature helps others feel grounded. Since they are not easily unsettled, they are often the people who provide a sense of stability in a group.
4 Cons of the Phlegmatic Personality
- Passivity and Lack of Initiative: Because of their reserved nature, people who have phlegmatic personality may sometimes be seen as passive or lacking in confidence or initiative.
- Avoidance of Difficult Decisions: Their desire to maintain peace and avoid conflict may lead them to evade making tough decisions. This can sometimes result in indecisiveness or a tendency to let important issues go unaddressed.
- Difficulty in Expressing Emotions: While one of the phlegmatic traits is empathy, they may have difficulties in expressing their own emotions. This can sometimes lead to misunderstandings or feelings of emotional distance in relationships. That’s why it’s important to learn how to feel your feelings.
- Tendency to be Overlooked: Because people with phlegmatic temperament are not the loudest or most assertive people in a room, they may sometimes be overlooked or underappreciated. They often don’t have a desire to leave their comfort zone.
How to Deal With People Who Have a Phlegmatic Personality?
Here are some tips on how to communicate with people who have a phlegmatic personality:
- Wait for them to speak. People with phlegmatic personality type may take longer to share their thoughts. That’s why it may be helpful to give them time to express themselves without interrupting.
- Ask open-ended questions. If you want to get them talking, ask more reflective questions that allow them to share their thoughts rather than yes or no questions.
- Don’t pressure them. People with phlegmatic temperament don’t like conflict or being put on the spot. To avoid stressing them out, address any conflicts with sensitivity and in private.
- Give them time to decide. If you need them to make a decision, try not to pressure this temperament type for an immediate response and give them time to think.
- Be aware of your tone. People with phlegmatic temperament type are sensitive to conflict, so approach difficult conversations with a calm and gentle tone, and they’ll be more likely to engage without feeling overwhelmed.
- Don’t overload them with drama. Keep things positive to build lasting relationships, as they hate drama and conflict.
- Let them take their time. Tell them it’s okay to take their time and don’t make them feel rushed. If there is a specific deadline for a decision, give them enough notice.
FAQ
1. Is a phlegmatic person shy?
Although a phlegmatic person is not necessarily shy, their calm nature may give the impression that they are quiet or restrained. People who have phlegmatic personality tend to stay in the background and keep the peace rather than seek attention or the spotlight.
For example, in contrast to more extroverted and energetic temperaments, such as sanguine or choleric temperament, people with phlegmatic traits are often less concerned with socializing or drawing attention to themselves. They tend to be friendly and approachable.
However, if you have a phlegmatic temperament, you may shy away from drama or confrontation and are more inclined to observe events before participating fully.
2. Are people with phlegmatic traits submissive?
We asked Hannah Schlueter, MA, LAC, if people with phlegmatic traits are submissive.
Not necessarily! While they may not approach conflict with the most assertiveness, their ability to stay calm and think things through can be significantly helpful in problem-solving interpersonal issues. Addressing patterns of passive communication or behaviors can be one of the best things for people with phlegmatic temperaments.
3. How do people with phlegmatic traits combine with other temperaments?
Hannah Schlueter, MA, LAC, explained how people with phlegmatic traits combine with other temperaments.
This temperament can blend really well as it often incorporates stabilization of a person’s mood and increases self-reflection. Depending on the temperament blend, it can create a lot of balance in a person’s temperament while also creating meaningful connections through their use of empathy and listening skills. It all depends on which traits are more prevalent in the blend with the other temperament type(s)!
Sources
- Lumen Learning. “Hippocrates & Galen – The Four Humors”.
- O. Thadea, S. Putra, I G. Putra. The Relationship Between Galen’s Personality Type Theory and Emotional Intelligence Level. 2018
- Xinyin Chen. Temperament and Personality. March 2015.
