DISC Myths Debunked: Discrepancies in My Report
Normally, 98% of people who take a DISC assessment when reading their report will confirm: “This is so totally me!” However, there will be approximately 2% who will find some discrepancies and raise a question to their behavioral consultant or coach about these findings. There is a valid explanation of these possible discrepancies, and as a world expert in DISC, Dr. Brad Smith, Managing Director at PeopleKeys, Inc. answers why they may happen. Read below to extend your DISC knowledge and how to handle such situations during consulting and coaching with confidence.
Why are there discrepancies in my report?
My style blend is a “Concluder” or a “DI” combination. I am very fast-paced and sometimes impatient; however, the report states I can be very patient at times. I have noticed this with other style blends, too. Is there a reason for this perceived discrepancy?
Answer: It is not a discrepancy at all, in fact it is quite normal. We are all a blend of all the DISC styles, and can at times exhibit all of these, depending on the environment and the situation.
I myself am a high “D” and “I” style, and I tend to be a bit impatient. I also have a young son at home and when I am with him, I can be very understanding and patient. Is it a discrepancy if my report mentions me as being fast-paced and driven then later mentions about how I value family time together? No. We are all very complex and wonderfully created beings who will at times exhibit different characteristics.
- Another example is a “Precisionist” or a “C/S” combination. This style is very non-confrontational and peace-loving, but can also be very resistant and strong-willed when you touch on certain personal beliefs and values.
- As a general guide, the first few paragraphs are in reference to our primary styles and characteristics. The next couple of paragraphs refer more about our secondary characteristics. These are less often seen, but are still a very real part of who we are. We not only look at the style blends, but we also look at all of your points and the intensity of each. A person who has a “D/I” at the top of the chart and an “S/C” all the way at the bottom will act differently than someone who is the “D/I” style just above the midline and the “S/C” slightly below. The intensity and the ranges do matter and can be reflected in the reports as well.
- We feel it is wrong to over generalize and put people into “categories” when at times we can all exhibit different blends and strengths. It is who we are and what makes us special. It also reflects one of the main reasons we publish and promote DISC. We believe each person has the ability to understand our preferences and modify behavior as-needed to meet the situational demands. To describe people in only a one-dimensional view, where we cannot act differently, would be doing a great disservice to our users and followers. We all have choices and our personality is as much about choices and informed decision-making as it is our individual style blends.
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