DiSC FAQ
What is DiSC and Other Frequently Asked Questions
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Q: What is The DiSC Profile?
A: DiSC is a self administering behavioral assessment. The DiSC behavioral system measures dimensions of observable behavior and is known as the universal language of behavior. Research shows that behavioral characteristics can be grouped into four major “personality styles” and individuals tend to exhibit specific characteristics common to that particular style.
The DiSC assessment classifies four dimensions of behavior commonly referred to as:
- Dominance – expresses actively as power, control and assertiveness.
- Influence – expresses actively as outgoing, social and influencing.
- Steadiness – expression is more reserved, patient and thoughtful.
- Conscientiousness – expression is more reserved, questioning, and analytical.
Q: Who created the DiSC Model?
A: The original DiSC model was originally based on the 1928 work of Dr. William Moulton Marston at Columbia University.
The four quadrant behavioral model was developed to examine the behavior of individuals within their environmentally specific situation. DiSC looks at behavioral styles and behavioral preferences. It was Marston’s 1928 book, “The Emotions of Normal People,” which introduced the DiSC model to the public. Marston, a contemporary of Carl Jung, defined four categories of human behavior style, type, or temperament which are Dominance, Influence (Inducement), Stability (Submission) and Compliant, Conscientious or Caution. Marston used compliance.
Even though Marston developed the D.I.S.C model, the DISC test or assessment, to prove his theory of the emotions of people within their environment, he never copyrighted his disc profile test. Thus DISC is available in the public domain.
Later, the work of Marston was researched and updated by Dr. John Geier and Inscape Publishing at the University of Minnesota. The DiSC model and its complimentary assessment tools have helped over 50 million people in 20+ languages over the last 40 years.
As an added bit of trivia, Marston is known in many circles for his work in developing the lie detector test. He was also the creator, writer and producer of “Wonder Woman” which introduced into comic strips, the role model of a strong female.
Q: Is Certification Required to Teach DiSC?
A: No, DiSC Certification is not required.
We at believe … that you, our customers are capable of presenting DiSC and other profiles without us. We provide the resources, tools, and training if necessary, and you do the delivery. We respect your abilities, experience, training skills, and your insight about your industry and your organization. You are invited to customize the materials to fit your needs.
DiSC is self-administering, self-scoring and self-interpreting; it is not a test, you cannot pass or fail, there are no bad profiles, and no wrong answers.
With the new Everything DiSC Classic Facilitation System, your work is done for you. It is the most powerful tool every built to help you succeed with DiSC.
It is a one-of-its-kind facilitation system for ALL of the DiSC Based products, including DiSC Preview, DiSC Action Planners, DiSC Classic, DiSC PPSS, and more. It provides all the answers for the users of the new ONLINE EPIC-based DiSC profiles. Everything DiSC includes our ENTIRE DiSC Classic product line.
Review Everything DiSC Facilitation System and Preview 4 DiSC Video scenes from the DVD
The Everything DiSC Classic Facilitation System will help you become proficient in presenting Everything DiSC.
Note: If you are an experiential learner, DiSC Train The Trainer (TTT) classes are available. Our Train The Trainer (TTT) is a DiSC Certification as a measure of knowledge of the DiSC instrument from Inscape Publishing, (Formerly Carlson Learning Company & Performax). Upon completion Inscape’s DiSC Trainer Certification requirements you will receive a Certificate of Certification for completing the process.
Click here for DiSC Trainer Certification Information.
Q: Is DiSC an appropriate assessment for Hiring Purposes?
A: No. The DiSC is not predictive.
It does not precisely determine job fit, job fitness, or success. Instead, it describes one’s work behavior patterns, style, traits, or type. Use DiSC to manage performance after a person is hired.
Q: Do all D’s, i’s, S’s and C’s behave the same way?
A: NO!
A person’s observable behavior is dependent on the unique combination of styles that they tend to use. The most productive use of DiSC information is to learn about the DiSC Classical Patterns. There are 15 possible combinations of behavior. There is generally a primary style, and a secondary style. It is the combination of styles that makes us all unique.
Q: Why is the “i” in DiSC printed in lower case?
A: For you curious, high C styles, the lower case “i” in DiSC is an Inscape, trademark – originally a printers error. Being flexible and adaptable, Inscape, Carlson Learning Company, Performax decided to copyright the mistake and create their version of DiSC, using the small i. Always look for the DiSC Assessment with the small i. If your version doesn’t have a lower case “i” it is not from Inscape.
Q: Always Choose DiSC by Inscape!
- Inscape is a DiSC leader with Global Reach
- Inscape provides quality research-based tools
- Inscape profiles have strong validity and reliability
- Inscape has a network of 3000+ consultants