Clinical psychologist and lecturer at the University of Cape Coast, Dr. Eugene Kwarteng-Nantwi has emphasized the importance of understanding one’s temperament in navigating societal challenges.
In an interview with ATL FM NEWS, Dr. Kwarteng-Nantwi underscored the significance of this self-awareness, suggesting that it could contribute to solving some of society’s problems.
He further advocated for individuals to proactively learn about their temperaments, stating that such knowledge can lead to better interpersonal relationships in various settings, including workplaces, marriages, and religious congregations.
“What I am saying is that when we get to know our temperament, we will be able to live with difficult people in our offices, marriages and churches. Some pastors are very choleric, especially with the way they’ll try to control you which can lead a person to stop attending the church but if you know that is his temperament, there can be peaceful coexistence”, he said.
Dr. Nantwi highlighted the potential benefits of understanding not only one’s temperament but also recognizing the weaknesses of others.
Additionally, he urged universities across the nation to incorporate the study of temperaments into their curriculum as a liberal course.
To him, understanding temperaments should not be confined to psychologists alone but should be general knowledge accessible to everyone, as it is essential for lifelong well-being.
He pinpointed that learning to improve one’s temperament and overcoming its weaknesses can foster personal development, empowering individuals to reach their fullest potential.
“Once you make a conscious effort through learning to improve your temperament so that you can unlearn your weaknesses, you’ll become a better person”, he revealed.
Dr. Nantwi indicated that individuals with a Phlegmatic temperament often prioritize peace and show a genuine fondness for others.
Meanwhile, he said this act of kindness can sometimes be misinterpreted as flirtatiousness.
He noted that Phlegmatics are unlikely to display rudeness or sarcasm, making them likely to be taken advantage of, unlike Choleric or Sanguine personalities.
He, therefore, advised partners who have Phlegmatics as their spouses to refrain from taking them for granted.
“Phlegmatics tend to be so content with what they have which causes them to be taken advantage of by friends but you cannot do this to a choleric or sanguine because it will turn into an argument. Therefore, don’t take a phlegmatic spouse for granted thinking they are vulnerable”, he said.
Dr. Nantwi emphasized that individuals with a Phlegmatic temperament are prone to depression, emphasizing the importance of spouses providing constant encouragement and love to them.
“if they are your spouse sit them down and talk to them, tell them you have noticed somethings bother them too much which they refuse to express. Tell them how much you are concerned about their quietness. This will let your phlegmatic partner know how much you care and are concerned about them. Make them conscious of their actions and with time, they’ll become a better person”, he advised.
Source: Comfort Sweety Hayford & Angelina Riley Hayford/ATLFMNEWS
