Part of the Casswiki article series Books
The Polyvagal Theory is a book by Stephen W. Porges, first published in 2011. It presents a highly informative collection of scientific papers on the behavioral and regulatory role of the autonomic nervous system, especially emotionally and socially.
The vagus nerve is a major part of the regulatory system that moves us between calmer states on the one hand and fight, flight, or freeze responses on the other. It has multiple branches, hence the word ‘polyvagal’. If fight, flight, or freeze responses are triggered inappropriately, then among other things, a person will be less able to handle social interaction and to think in a clear, level-headed way. The older, more primitive systems take over. If such responses are not triggered when appropriate, however, then this can be a danger, because they are meant to ensure survival in situations where a quick and decisive response is needed.
The vagus nerve is important for emotional regulation and responses in general. Controlled stimulation (e.g. as done through our Éiriú Eolas program) can greatly help emotional processing, both as a way to calm down and deal with stress and as a way to recover from trauma. Dysregulation can be found in various disorders involving emotional problems, trauma, or difficulties with sensory processing or with social interaction.
This book gives a valuable in-depth understanding, but is also among the more challenging reads on our recommended books list. The Cassiopaea Forum thread contains some discussion and other information that may be helpful in reading it.
See also
- Vagus nerve
- Éiriú Eolas
- Instinctive substratum
External links
- StephenPorges.com: Videos (Videos and podcasts about the work of Stephen Porges.)
Articles
- The Polyvagal Theory for Treating Trauma (A complete transcript of a Teleseminar Session featuring Stephen W. Porges, PhD and conducted by Dr. Ruth Buczynski, PhD of NICABM.)
- Immobilized by chronic fatigue or fibromyalgia? The Polyvagal Theory and movement restriction
Forum content
- Cassiopaea Forum: The Polyvagal Theory – Stephen W. Porges (Discussion of the book and insights drawn from it. It also quotes and links to other material, including videos and interviews.)
Audio
Videos
- Autonomic Nervous System Insights (Series of four short lecture videos by John Chitty explaining the Polyvagal Theory in a simple to understand way.)
- Video: Polyvagal Theory (Attila Kemeny PhD discusses the Polyvagal Theory along with a spirited discussion of the interface of human emotion and relationship with neurophysiological functions of the body.)
- Video: Stephen Porges “The Polyvagal Theory” (Stephen Porges explains the Polyvagal Theory in this 41’ interview.)
- The Science of Compassion: Origins, Measures, and Interventions – Stephen Porges, PhD