Self-focused style

Key features of this type of personality style are a lack of consideration or tolerance for others' needs. The individual's low frustration tolerance may be related to failure, relating to their early developmental experiences, to learn how to delay immediate gratification. People who have features of this personality style may display a tendency to blame others to make sense of their feelings of distress when things go wrong, rather than shouldering blame themselves. Others may find people with these personality features unhelpful or unempathic towards them, especially at times when they require assistance. People with this personality style tend to take advantage of others' limitations and shortcomings. They may behave in ways that suggest a sense of entitlement or privilege at the expense of others' comfort or welfare, and may inappropriately disregard others when pursuing their own goals. When depressed they may become quite ‘hostile’ and provocative to those around, often having a hair trigger explosive response to having their needs frustrated.

Key features of the Self-focused Personality Style (derived from our Temperament and Personality Questionnaire):

• Do not put themselves out for anyone.

• Intolerant of others' wishes.

• Unsympathetic to others.

• Take advantage of others.

• Enjoy manipulating people.

• Blame others when things go wrong.

• Often hostile and volatile in their interactions with others.

When distressed, people with features of this personality style commonly engage in risk-taking behaviours such as excessive drinking, smoking, or gambling.