Table 1. Description of the temperament and character dimensions.

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	Practical and cold; withdrawn and detached; independent.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

Notes.

Reproduced with permission from CR Cloninger.