How do classical temperaments map to Big Five traits?

Sanguine correlates with high extraversion, low neuroticism. Choleric with high extraversion, low agreeableness. Melancholic with high neuroticism, low extraversion. Phlegmatic with low extraversion, low neuroticism. Overlap is strong but not perfect.

Why use temperament if Big Five exists?

Temperament emphasizes innate, biological foundations; Big Five emphasizes observable trait dimensions. Temperament language is more intuitive; Big Five more quantitative. Both complement each other.

Can Big Five predict temperament type?

Largely, yes. High extraversion plus high openness suggests sanguine. High extraversion plus low agreeableness suggests choleric. Patterns are reliable but not perfect; individuals vary.

Is temperament more stable than Big Five traits?

Temperament shows slightly higher stability due to biological emphasis. Big Five traits can shift somewhat through effort, therapy, or environment. Foundational dimensions of both remain relatively stable across lifespan.