TEMPERAMENT PROFILE: INTP (Ni-Ti-Fe-Se)

Phlegmatic/Choleric (P/C) = Patient Strategist

Tim LaHaye

The most active of all Phlegmatics are P/Cs. Predominantly Phlegmatic, these people will still never become balls of fire. Like other Phlegmatics, they are easy to get along with and may become excellent group leaders. Although P/Cs rarely offer their service to others, in their own organized offices where they exercise control, they are usually first-rate professionals. Their advice will be practical, helpful, and quite trustworthy. They can be expected to do the right thing but rarely go beyond the norm.

The weaknesses of P/Cs are not readily apparent but gradually come to the surface, especially in the home. In addition to the lack of motivation and the fear problems of the other Phlegmatics, they can be determinedly stubborn and unyielding. They don’t blow up at others but simply refuse to give in or cooperate. They are not fighters or crusaders by nature but often let their inner anger and stubbornness reflect itself in silence.

P/Cs often retreat alone to the “workshop” or “nest” or nightly immerse their minds in TV. The older they get, the more they indulge their sedentary tendency to become increasingly passive. Although they will probably live long and peaceful lives, they need to give themselves to the concerns and needs of their families and force themselves to become more active. If the male P/C’s wife can make an adjustment to his passiveness and reluctance to take the lead in the home, particularly in the discipline of their children, they can enjoy a long and happy marriage.

Unwritten Grace

P/Cs are quiet and unassuming, and like to keep to themselves. They are also the most stubborn of the phlegmatic blends, but are very unlikely to blow up in anger. If they ever get angry, they’d be more likely to show it with sarcasm or cold silences than rage. They might be slow to back down in a confrontation, but rarely, if ever, start one. P/Cs tend to be fairly unemotional, and are slow and steady in their ways. If faced with undesired change, they may resist it, rather than go with it just to please, or try it before losing interest. Despite this, P/Cs can be effective leaders or workers when pushed, as they are steady and competent and aren’t easily worried. They might not like being pushed out of their comfort zone, but usually don’t struggle to deal with it when it happens. They may be level-headed, and are often a calming influence on others, whilst not getting impatient or too emotionally involved with people.