Social Styles
The social styles model developed by David Merrill focuses on an individual's outer behaviour, not on their inner state.
This model is built on two dimensions. One dimension is along a continuum of more assertive to less assertive. The other dimension of Social Styles is responsiveness to less responsive. They describe those who are more responsive as emotionally responsive or expressive and those who are less responsive as emotionally controlled.
The social styles system takes two dimensions that describe how we relate to other people and uses it to define four types of people.
The Amiable is a person who is focussed on people rather than tasks and who has a tendency to ask rather than tell. Often seen as quiet and unassuming. They are warm friendly listeners who highly value friendships.
The Analytical is a person who is focussed on the task rather than people and who has a tendency to ask rather than tell. They are deliberate, thorough, logical, and follow procedures, carefully weighing alternatives before committing. They are disciplined, quiet unassuming and show little emotion when dealing with others.
The Driver is a person who is focussed on the task rather than the people and who has a tendency to tell rather than ask. They are results orientated, taking the initiative and responding quickly and decisively. They will correct, modify or add to other people's suggestions. They like taking charge, and to direct others, making things happen.
The Expressive is a person focussed on the people rather than the task and has a tendency to tell rather than ask. They are energetic, inspiring, and emotional. They are comfortable spending time in friendly conversation before moving to the task. They are easily excitable, and ready to share insights and dreams.
