Theory
Polyvagal Theory
Polyvagal theory is a framework that relates autonomic nervous system states to safety cues, social engagement, and defensive responses. It is frequently referenced in discussions of stress, trauma, and co-regulation.
Worksheets
Citations
- Polyvagal Theory: A Science of Safety
Frontiers • 2022
- Polyvagal Theory: A Science of Safety (PMC version)
PMC • 2022
- Polyvagal Theory: A Science of Safety (repository record)
UNC Repository • 2022
Key concepts
- Autonomic state shifts and adaptive responding
- Social engagement and cues of safety
- Co-regulation and relational nervous system dynamics
- Threat detection and defensive mobilization
- Language precision: what is supported vs hypothesized
- Application in trauma-informed contexts
- Ongoing debate and interpretation in the literature