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. 2012 Jul 15;2012:925372. doi: 10.1155/2012/925372

Table 1.

Temperament and character description (reproduced with permission of C. R. Cloninger).

Temperament and character descriptors
Temperament High scores Low scores
Harm avoidance Worrying and pessimistic; Relaxed and optimistic;
fearful and doubtful; bold and confident;
shy; outgoing;
fatigable. vigorous.
Novelty seeking Exploratory and curious; Indifferent;
impulsive; reflective;
extravagant and enthusiastic; frugal and detached;
disorderly. orderly and regimented.
Reward dependance Sentimental and warm; Practical and cold;
dedicated and attached; withdraw and detached;
dependent. independent.
Persistence Industrious and diligent; Inactive and indolent;
hard working; gives up easily;
ambitious and overachiever; modest and underachiever;
perseverant and perfectionist. quitting and pragmatist.
Character
Self-directedness Mature and strong; Immature and fragile;
responsible and reliable; blaming and unreliable;
purposeful; purposeless;
resourceful and effective; inert and ineffective;
self-accepted; self-striving;
habits congruent with long-term goals. habits incongruent with long-term goals.
Cooperativeness Socially tolerant; Socially intolerant;
empathic; critical;
helpful; unhelpful;
compassionate and constructive; revengeful and destructive;
ethical and principled. opportunistic.
Self-transcendence Wise and patient; Impatient;
creative and self-forgetful; unimaginative and self-conscious;
united with the universe. pride and lack of humility.