According to the DISC assessment, my primary style is Cautious (C), with two secondary traits – Dominant (D) and Supportive (S). This creates a C/DS style. The Inspiring (I) trait is also present but less pronounced. I generally agree with the DISC assessment of my motivations and behaviors. It accurately captures my natural tendencies and how I interact with the world. I tend to be cautious analytical, and prefer logical and fact-based communication. I also resonate with the strengths and blind spots identified in the assessment. However, there is always some room for interpretation and individual variation.
Comparison of Motivation vs. Behavior
The assessment indicates that my highest motivation is to “Drive Careful, conscientious follow-through, accuracy,” and my lowest motivation is the “Ideal Environment Working alone or with a small group to create quality results.” I largely agree with these findings. I do find great satisfaction in ensuring accuracy and follow-through in my work. However, I don’t necessarily dislike working in a small group, but I do prefer it when the emphasis is on quality results.
My highest behavior in the adaptive style is “Consistency,” and the lowest is “Expressing emotions.” I largely agree with these findings as well. I do tend to exhibit consistency in my behaviors, and I often struggle with expressing emotions openly.
My natural and adaptive styles are similar in that they both emphasize caution and consistency, but they also differ in terms of expressing emotions. In my natural style, I prefer to avoid emotional expression, while my adaptive style suggests that I may struggle with it. The result indicates that I may be more open to expressing emotions when the situation calls for it, even though it’s not my natural inclination.
Matching Communication Style
The DISC assessment’s description of my communication style is quite accurate. I tend to listen carefully, analyze information thoroughly, and prefer factual and unemotional communication. I also avoid conflicts but can engage in limited confrontation and debate when necessary. I rely on reason and logic to persuade others. The result aligns with my preferred method and style of communication, which is based on facts, rationality, and maintaining a calm and composed demeanor.
Impact on Communication with Peers
Understanding my communication style preference and my personality style has a significant impact on my interactions with peers. It allows me to tailor my communication to be more effective and considerate. For instance, when working with someone with a Dominant (D) style, I can be more concise and assertive. With an Inspiring (I) style individual, I can make an extra effort to be friendly and approachable. When communicating with a Supportive (S) style person, I can be patient and provide reassurance. For those with a Cautious (C) style, I can ensure that I address their questions thoroughly and with a focus on accuracy. Comprehending my style and the styles of my peers also helps me adapt and create better rapport. It minimizes misunderstandings, improves teamwork, and fosters a more harmonious work environment (Musick et al., 2021). It also enables me to address potential conflicts in a more measured and constructive way. I can anticipate how others might perceive my communication.
Therapeutic Communication with Patients
My communication style can be an advantage in therapeutic communication with patients. Patients often value healthcare professionals who provide clear and accurate information. I can excel in explaining medical conditions, treatment options, and potential outcomes in a way that patients can comprehend and trust (Engle et al., 2019). However, there are potential limitations to my communication style in a healthcare setting. Some patients may require more emotional support or empathy, which may not come naturally to me. Therefore, I must work on recognizing when emotional support is needed and make a conscious effort to provide it.
References
Engle, R. L., Mohr, D. C., Holmes, S. K., Seibert, M. N., Afable, M., Leyson, J., & Meterko, M. (2019). Evidence-based practice and patient-centered care: doing both well. Health Care Management Review, 46(3), 174–184. https://doi.org/10.1097/HMR.0000000000000254
Musick, G., Zhang, R., McNeese, N. J., Freeman, G., & Hridi, A. P. (2021). Leveling up teamwork in esports. Proceedings of the ACM on Human-Computer Interaction, 5(CSCW1), 1–30. https://doi.org/10.1145/3449123
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