iseloomu

Iseloom is the Estonian word for character, including moral qualities and overall personality. In everyday language, iseloom refers to enduring dispositions that guide a person’s behavior across different situations. The genitive form iseloomu appears in phrases such as tema iseloomu on tugev (his character is strong) or iseloomu arendamine (the development of character).

Iseloomujoon, or “character trait,” names specific aspects of iseloom such as ausus (honesty), vastutustunne (sense of responsibility), and hoolivus (empathy). These traits are considered relatively stable parts of a person and are distinguished from käitumine (behavior), which is the observable actions in a given moment. In psychology and everyday usage, iseloom is linked to broader questions of personality and moral development.

Temperament versus iseloom: temperament refers to biologically based patterns of emotion and energy, while iseloom covers moral and personality qualities shaped by upbringing, culture, and experience. The two concepts intersect, but iseloom emphasizes values, character, and enduring dispositions beyond raw emotional reactivity.

Cultural and educational context: in Estonian discourse, iseloomu arendamine—the development of character—is discussed in parenting, schooling, and ethics. Public and private institutions often aim to cultivate traits such as honesty, responsibility, empathy, and tolerance through example, instruction, and opportunities to act according to ethical standards.

See also: iseloomujoon, moraalsed omadused, personality.