The Supine Temperament
Understanding the Supine Temperament
For centuries, four human typologies were widely accepted. However, in 1981, Drs. Richard and Phyllis Arno of the National Christian Counselors Association discovered a fifth temperament – the Supine. This discovery filled a gap for individuals who didn’t fit into the existing four categories. Like all temperaments, the Supine cannot be accurately assessed by observation alone; the Arno Profile System (APS) is necessary to identify a person’s temperament accurately.
Characteristics of Supines
Servant Nature
The term Supine means “lying on the back or with the face turned upward,” akin to a servant looking up to their master. This temperament is characterized by a strong desire to serve others, embodying a gentle spirit and a natural inclination towards service.
Interaction Areas
The Supine temperament can be understood through three areas of human interaction: Inclusion (social interaction, surface relationships, and intellectual energies), Control (decision-making abilities, willingness to take on responsibilities, and the need for independence), and Affection (the need for love, affection, and deep personal relationships).
Strengths of the Supine
Inclusion (Mind)
- Great capacity for service
- Genuine liking for people
- Inborn gentle spirit
- Desire to serve others
Control (Will)
- Highly dependable
- Enforces “the rules” set by others
- Absolute loyalty to caretakers, bosses, and leaders
Affection (Emotion)
- Able to respond to love and open up emotionally when feeling safe
- Capable of absolute and total commitment to deep personal relationships
Weaknesses of the Supine
Inclusion (Mind)
- Indirect behavior, expecting others to read their mind
- Fear of rejection
- Harbors anger, often referring to it as “hurt feelings”
Control (Will)
- Prone to aggressive disorders
- Openly dependent
- Defensive against loss of position
- Weak willpower, feeling powerless and at the mercy of others
Affection (Emotion)
- Unwilling to initiate love and affection
- Requires constant reassurance of being loved, needed, and appreciated
- Fear of abandonment, leading to difficulty letting go of loved ones
Living Through Strengths and Managing Weaknesses
Supines possess a beautiful temperament with a natural servant’s heart. However, like all temperaments, they must learn to live through their strengths and manage their weaknesses. By understanding and embracing their God-given nature, Supines can lead fulfilling and productive lives.
Spiritual Guidance for Supines
Viewing life through spiritual lenses can help Supines navigate their strengths and weaknesses. Trusting in God’s plan and submitting to His authority provides stability and purpose. The Bible offers guidance and hope for Supines:
- “We can make our plans, but the LORD determines our steps.” (Proverbs 16:9)
- “Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:6)
- “My son, give me your heart, and let your eyes observe my ways.” (Proverbs 23:26)
- “Whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it.” (Luke 9:24)
- “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” (Proverbs 3:5-6)
- “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” (Matthew 6:33)
- “He must increase; I must decrease.” (John 3:30)
By submitting to God, Supines can harness their temperament strengths for His glory, leading a fulfilling and joyful life. The Supine temperament, when understood and embraced, can be a tremendous blessing, providing individuals with the opportunity to serve others and live out their God-given potential in meaningful ways.