By Dr. S. K. Shrivastav
Prof. Santosh Shrivastav introduces an innovative concept in behavioral science called the Temperamental Voltage (TmV)--a scientifically grounded framework that likens human temperament to electrical voltage to explain the intensity and regulation of human temperament. The author defines the Temperamental Voltage (TmV) as the “effective emotive force” that governs a person's mental thoughts, physical actions and emotional well be
Just as in electrical systems, recommended voltage must be maintained for their proper functioning, preventing short circuits and power failures; human temperament should also be maintained within a desired range, which the author calls optimal TmV range. Individuals having TmV within optimal range are full of enthusiasm, motivation, creativity, and emotional stability. TmV over optimal range manifests as anger, restlessness, impulsivity, or burnout; whereas lower than optimal TmV leads to apathy, lethargy, erratic behavior, depression or even suicides
By properly managing one's temperamental voltage, one can control stress, regulate emotions and maintain psychological balance. Also proper temperamental voltage boosts productivity, efficiency, and well-being of all concerned.
Shrivastav further introduces new theory of inductive coupling of emotions--- a compelling analogy from physics: just as voltage in one coil induces voltage in another (Faraday's Law), a person's TmV induces TmV in other persons around there.. People act as emotional transformers—either stepping up or stepping down the emotional voltage depending on their reactivity and resistance. This explains how interpersonal conflicts can escalate or de-escalate based on emotional contagion and how such conflicts can be minimized. Prof. Santosh Shrivastav has given many examples to demonstrate how TmV manifests in real-life scenarios:
To prevent and correct TmV fluctuations, the author proposes the EAAT strategy:
These four principles act as a psychological voltage stabilizer, helping individuals maintain composure and avoid destructive emotional spirals.
When compared with prominent theories, Prof. Shrivastav's TmV Theory offers a unique contribution as follows:
TmV theory complements Self-Determination Theory and Cognitive-Behavioral approaches by providing a simple gauge of emotional intensity.
At its core, TmV emphasizes the idea that human temperament is not merely a static trait but rather a dynamic trait reflecting the emotional energy that drives behavior. Prof. Shrivastav's Temperamental Voltage Concept enriches behavioral science.
The applicability of Prof. Shrivastav's concept TmV extends across various fields, including personal development, psychotherapy, education, and organizational behavior. TmV concept provides a roadmap personal development, improve coping strategies, and enhance life satisfaction. In therapeutic settings, mental health professionals can tailor interventions based on an individual's temperamental profile, facilitating more effective treatment outcomes. In education, recognizing the temperamental diversity among students enables educators to implement adaptive teaching strategies, fostering an inclusive environment that caters to the varying needs of learners. In the workplace, understanding the temperamental traits of colleagues can lead to improved collaboration and minimized conflicts, ultimately enhancing productivity and job satisfaction.
