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The connection between birth month and personality has always been a popular topic, but psychological and neuroscientific research indicates that this factor can, in fact, influence behavioral tendencies, specifically how “polite” or kind a person tends to be. While homeschooling is critical, science has observed curious patterns linking seasonality and brain chemistry to the development of traits like empathy and cooperation.
Climatic conditions at the time of birth can modulate the so-called “affective temperament”/Photo: Reproduction
Why can birth month influence kindness?
Researchers state that environmental factors during pregnancy and shortly after birth, such as exposure to sunlight and the availability of nutrients, affect the production of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin. A study carried out by Vanderbilt University demonstrated that the season of birth can leave a “lasting mark” on the biological clock of mammals, influencing mood regulation in adult life.
Climatic conditions at the time of birth can modulate the so-called “affective temperament”, the biological basis of personality, influencing the extent to which a person tends to demonstrate pro-social and kind behaviors.
Which month appears most prominently?
Several investigations, including research presented at the European College of Neuropsychopharmacology (ECNP) congress, led by professor Xenia Gonda, identified a significant pattern: people born in spring (in the northern hemisphere, between March, April and May) tend to score higher in the so-called “hyperthymic temperament”.
Individuals with this temperament tend to be more positive, optimistic and cordial. This does not mean that they are “saints” by nature, but that they may have a biological predisposition for more harmonious social interactions.
Summary of trends observed in studies:
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March to May (Spring): Higher index of hyperthymic temperament, with a tendency towards greater kindness, optimism and social openness.
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June to August (Summer): Associated with faster mood changes, but with peaks of intense positivity.
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September to November (Autumn): Less tendency to depressive behaviors and greater emotional balance, without extreme emphasis on friendliness.
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December to February (Winter): In some data, associated with a less irritable posture, but more pragmatic and less focused on socially pleasing.
These differences suggest that the time of year can leave its mark on the way we process emotions and relate to others.
How does biology influence behavior?
The so-called “advantage” of being born in months with greater luminosity appears to be linked to the brain’s monoamine system. People with more balanced levels of serotonin and dopamine tend to regulate their emotions better, remaining calm in stressful situations and reacting with more patience and politeness.
This biological emotional maturity can facilitate the practice of good education learned in the family environment.
Does birth month define education?
No. Kindness is the result of multiple factors. The month of birth can influence the base temperament, but it does not determine the character. The family environment, the examples received in childhood, culture and the personal effort to act with respect have a much greater impact throughout life.
A person born in winter can be extremely polite if they have been taught to value respect for others, while someone born in spring can be rude if they do not have this basis.
Why is the topic interesting to science?
Understanding how seasonal factors influence temperament helps psychologists and neuroscientists better understand the biological roots of personality. These studies reinforce that, although there are innate tendencies, human behavior is flexible and shaped by experience. Furthermore, they show that, in part, we are influenced by the cycles of nature at the moment we are born.
