Model of Behavior

           -Dr. Robert A. Rohm, PhD

The following explanation of the Model of Human Behavior is taken from two workbooks developed by Dr. Robert A. Rohm, PhD (Personality Insights, Inc.) "Building Better Relationships" and "The Ultimate Discovery System Adult Profile Assessment"

The Model of Human Behavior is based on 2 foundational observations about how people normally behave:

Observation #1:

Some people are more outgoing, while others are more reserved.  You can think of this as each person's "internal motor."  Some people always seem ready to "go" and "dive in."  They engage their motor quickly.  Others tend to engage their motor slowly or more cautiously.

Observation #2:

Some people are more task-oriented, while others are more people-oriented.  You can think of this as each person's "internal compass" that guides them.  Some people are focused on getting something done; others are more tuned-in to the people around them and their feelings.

With both observations, we want to emphasize that these behavioral tendencies are neither right or wrong or good or bad.  They are just different.  We are simply indentifying normal behavior styles.  People have different styles, and that is okay.

Thus, we have 4 behavioral tendencies to help us characterize people:

• Outgoing

• Reserved

• Task-oriented

• People-oriented

Of course, everyone has some of all 4 of these tendencies at different times and in different situations.  However, most people typically have 1 or 2 of these tendencies that seem to fit them well in their everyday behavior. And, on the other hand, 1 or 2 of these tendencies usually do not fit them well.  These tendencies may even seem "foreign" to their approach to life.  The balance of these 4 tendencies shapes the way each person "sees" life and those around them.

Recognizing other people's normal behavior patterns allows you to adjust your own expectations when relating to them.  You will also find that recognizing other people's normal behavior patterns allows you to adapt your own behavior to better meet their needs. 

We spend years in school developing our intelligence to effectively use our minds.  Developing our unique personality to effectively use our behavior is just as vital to successful living.  Your Intelligence Quotient, or IQ, measures your intelligence.  Your Personality Quotient, or PQ, refers to your ability to understand yourself and others for effective communication and teamwork.  Studies have shown that technical skill, beginning with intelligence and developed through education and experience, accounts for only 15% of success in the workplace.  The other 85% of workplace success comes from people skills! These skills are developed through learning better ways to behave and interact.