Coping With Difficult People by Understanding Their Personality Style

In his book "Curing People," author Dr. Robert Bramson outlines six basic keys to coping with difficult people and provides concrete examples of how to deal with each of them. The basis of the book is the belief that people have six different personality styles, each of which can be shaped and developed through consistent exposure and understanding. Based on years of study and observation, Dr. Robert Bramson identifies the seven basic personality types that personality sufferers identify with and provides six simple steps to coping with every one. Also teaches you how to stop being a victim.

People are grouped into three main categories: Dominant, Interdependent, and Passive. A dominant personality style is what you would expect to find in people who prefer to take charge and get things done their way. These are typically the people you would have to earn respect from in order to gain influence. An interdependent personality style is more likely to be found in personalities who are more sensitive and emotional. They value and depend on others so they can fulfill their needs without feeling guilty or incompetent. A passive personality style is common in people who are agreeable to go along with others' decisions and are not overly controlling.

Bramson, in his book, divides personality types into six groups. People who are an introvert prefer to be by themselves or in a quiet, serene environment. These are often the "cold" types that have little need for intimacy and are more comfortable with themselves than others.

Those who are an extrovert prefer to be involved with people, but do not like to make a big deal out of it. These people are considered to be "talkers" and have a tendency to over-talk. These personality types are also extroverts. Those who are a combination of both introverted and extroverted personalities are known as "inverted narcissists". These people are considered to be manipulative and have an insatiable appetite for power.

A person's first impression of another person can often be an accurate assessment of a person's personality. If the first impression is a person with a passive personality style, the individual may appear to be very shy or introverted. However, there could be a deeper underlying reason for that person's behavior. A person with an extroverted personality style may need to compensate for that by taking on more responsibilities and/or setting higher goals for themselves. That person would be better suited for an introverted personality.

It's important to know yourself well before you attempt to understand others. A personality assessment tool can be used to gain insight into other people's personalities. The tool assesses a person's introvert/extrovert personality style and then correlates it with other personality traits. There are numerous such assessment tools online that you can find by simply doing a quick internet search. Some of them are quick and easy, but others are expensive and time-consuming.