by Kathleen Dickinson, CGA (© 2003 all rights reserved)

Graphology is the study of handwriting analysis, and has existed for centuries. Aristotle observed in the 4th century that "Spoken words are the symbols of mental experience and written words are the symbols of spoken words. Just as all men do not have the same speech sounds, so do all men not have the same writing." The first surviving study of handwriting was written by Camillo Baldi in 1625 under the title "Treatise on a Method to Recognize the Nature and Quality of a Writer from his Letters."

In succeeding centuries many people of historical note continued the study of handwriting. Included amongst these were Goethe, Madame de Stael, Balzac, Edgar Allen Poe, Charles Dickens, Elizabeth Barrett and Robert Browning. Artist Thomas Gainsborough used writing samples to capture the personality of the subjects he painted. Handwriting analysis established itself as an excellent tool for people to learn about themselves, to get more insight and ease within their relationships (business, romantic, friendship and family).º

Graphology provides information about the inner person. It does not matter if you write with your hands, teeth, or feet; handwriting is your personality on paper. It is best if you write from your heart. You can write about your goals, career, or issues you would like to focus on. The more you write, the more you become comfortable, the more shows up in your handwriting.

I personally use handwriting analysis in personality profiles to encourage people to better understand themselves, their employees, their family members, and their friends. It is also useful in career counseling, to create classes and seminars, to encourage better cooperation amongst colleagues, for customer service, and for teachers and students. The first thing I look at in handwriting is the rhythm, then the margins, spacing and depth. All of these things tell me something about the person’s emotions, how they frame life events, and their consistency.

Other graphologists find handwriting analysis valuable in employment selection; jury selection; police work (forgery and crime investigation); and brain rehabilitation.

Graphology (handwriting analysis) is a "soft science", as is psychology, of which it is a derivative. It will not tell you your future, who you will marry, or help you find your lost car keys. It will help you know yourself better, allowing you to make informed choices in order to better shape your future.

Having your handwriting analyzed provides you with information about your vocational skills, social skills, protective mechanisms, thinking processes, wants, needs and fears. All of this information can give you power when making life changes and it can give you insights into what can help you succeed.

Certified Graphoanalyst Kathleen Dickinson uses her training in handwriting analysis to bring to light hidden facets of personality with a goal of optimizing both the personal and professional In her capacity as owner and proprietor of Dynamic Impressions, Kathleen offers her breadth of experience to both individuals and organizations with the goal of facilitating personal and professional success. For information please visit http://www.dynamicimpressions.com .