DISC Model of behaviour

The foundation for the DISC model comes from the work of a Harvard psychologist named Dr. William Moulton Marston in the 1920′s. He developed a theory that people tend to develop a self-concept based on one of four factors — Dominance, Inducement, Steadiness, or Compliance. This idea forms the basis for the DISC theory as it is commonly applied today.


In the DISC model , the full range of normal human behavior is defined by a circle divided into quadrants as described below.


Divide a circle in half horizontally. The upper half represents outgoing or fast-paced people. The lower half represents reserved or slower-paced people. Outgoing people tend to move fast, talk fast, and decide fast. Reserved people tend to speak more slowly and softer than outgoing people, and they generally prefer to consider things thoroughly before making a decision.

The circle can also be divided vertically. The left half represents task-oriented people. The right half represents people-oriented people. Task-oriented people tend to focus on logic, data, results and projects. People-oriented people tend to focus on experiences, feelings, relationships, and interactions with other people.

Combining these two circles completes the model description…

D

– type individuals are outgoing and task-oriented. They tend to be Dominantand Decisive. They usually focus on results and the bottom-line.

I

– type individuals are outgoing and people-oriented. They tend to be Inspiringand Influencing. They usually focus on talking and having fun.

S

– type individuals are reserved and people-oriented. They tend to beSupportive and Steady. They usually focus on peace and harmony.

C

– type individuals are reserved and task-oriented. They tend to be Cautiousand Conscientious. They usually focus on facts and rules.