The 6 Things We Value - Part 1: The Helper

I will be doing a four part series focusing on what each type values. The first post is going to be on what The Helper values. Through learning what matters to each type, we can better know how to encourage and direct our students and even ourselves. There are six things that Dr. Keirsey says that we value: Being (mood), Trusting, Yearning, Seeking, Prizing, and Aspiring.

1) Helpers Value Being Concerned

This type is usually concerned in someway, about something. "They are concerned about their homes, their jobs, their families, their neighborhoods...their duties and responsibilities, their health, their finances, their dress, whether they're on time... big things, little things," (pg. 97). But just because they worry about things, it doesn't mean that they can't have fun and joke around. Dr. Keirsey gave the example of Bilbo from The Hobbit. He was concerned for his home, family, friends, and what was going to happen, but he was also able to have some fun and tell jokes.

Teacher Application:
These kids are the ones who are sometimes called "worry warts" because they are thinking of things that could go wrong or worrying about their families while they are at school. They can also be concerned if things in their desk get messed up or are not in the order they like them. Understand that these children will probably have something on their mind, but you can be a great source of comfort and security. Help them to let loose at times so they can enjoy their time with you. You can also ease fears if they bring them up to you, but don't make lightly of things that are really bothering them.

2) Helpers Value Trusting Authority

This is pretty self explanatory. Helpers trust those who they see are in an authority positions: teachers, doctors, political leaders, church clergy, etc. They will do what they are instructed to by those who they see in that position of authority because they feel they should. They often don't look for more reason other than they trust who is telling them what to do to do it.

Teacher Application:
This shows up very early. You can look at small children, especially when they start school, they are the ones who are sitting quietly when their teacher tell them to, while others are still struggling. More than half of teachers are Helpers themselves and so they really enjoy these children who seem to listen to everything they say and follow. This type will be your "good girls and boys" and you probably won't have too much trouble with them. They will be your examples and try to follow what you say.

3) Helpers Value Yearning for Belonging
Helpers want to belong and will join many groups. They will be part of the PTA, political groups, church groups, and other places to interact with others and be a part of something more than themselves. They want to have friends and know they have a place. Being a part of groups and having friends helps them to feel security and have the ability to help their community.

Teacher Application:
Make sure this type of children have the ability to be a part of groups. This includes in the classroom and after. Let them know about after school programs, sports, 4-H, etc. Help them to know they are a valued part of your classroom and that they are a part of something. Let them know they can contribute something and they are important.

4) Helpers Value Seeking Security

This type is always aware of the dangers and problems of the world. When something bad happens, they use this as more evidence that they need to be prepared for when these things will happen. As we talked about earlier, they are concerned about these many things. Because of this concern, they look for security. They look for ways to be prepared for when things happen and they often say "better safe than sorry".

Teacher Application:
Help this type of child to feel secure in their learning environment. Be aware of what could be bothering them, so you can help to ease those fears. Be sensitive to their need for security. You can push them to try new things, but watch to make sure you aren't taking away their security. If that is lost, they may shut down or refuse.

5) Helpers Value Prizing Gratitude
Helpers are the ones who do the jobs that others don't want to do. Because they are duty
bound, they are often helping and trying to fulfill whatever needs are around them. They need to hear gratitude from those who they help, but they won't ask for it. Often times they feel neglected in this area and not appreciated for all they do. Everyone needs to feel appreciated and they way they feel that is through others acknowledging what they have done for them.

Teaching Application:
Make sure to thank these students for all they do. They will be the ones who ask to stay in at recess to help you with things. Even if you don't have things for them to do, occasionally allow them to help you and make sure to thank them. Show your appreciation for their hard work and service they give to you and others.

6) Helpers Value Aspiring to be an "Executive" 
This type wants to become the head of whatever organization they are part of. They want to become an "executive" type using their authority in how they feel is the best. Since this type is very good with logistics, they want to run these organizations to help them run the way they see is best. More than half of the Presidents of the United States have been Helpers. Looking at business executives, military leadership, church leaders, etc. are often Helpers as well.

Teacher Application:
Understand that these students like to be in charge in groups they are in. Help them to cultivate listening to others and not only thinking their way is the right way. Also help them to be a participant even when they aren't in charge. This can be a great attribute to set goals. Help them to make goals for what they want to accomplish or do in this month or year as they aspire to become leaders of groups they are part of.