Psychotherapy is a field in constant evolution, and one of the most fascinating recent developments is the application of the Polivagal theory of Stephen Porges. This theory provides a new picture of understanding of the physiological and psychological processes that influence mental well -being and has opened new paths for understanding the close relationship that exists between biology and mind.
Stephen Porges has developed, starting from the nineties, the Polivagal theory, trying to clarify the role played by the vagus nerve, a tenth cranial nerve, in the coordination of security or dangerous information detected in the environment.
There Polivagal theory is built around three cardinal principles: the autonomic hierarchy, neurocection and the social engagement system
The hierarchy of defense responses
The autonomous nervous system (SNA) is responsible for regulating body involuntary functions, such as heart rate, breathing and digestion.
The SNA is divided into two main branches: the parasimpatic nervous system and the sympathetic nervous system. Polivagal theory exceeds this division and proposes a new organization: Twenty-vagal system, nice system and back-vagal system.
The latter is phylogentically the oldest, not myelinized and governs the organs below the diaphragm. It is involved in the immobilization responses typical of the defense of reptiles and some mammals and is usually the last in order of activation in the face of a threat.
The sympathetic system instead governs the stain-attack mobilization responses, entering the game in situations of stress or danger, preparing for action, increasing the heartbeat, dilation of the pupils and activating energy resources.
Finally, the twenty-vagal branch, myelinized and therefore capable of transporting electrical information faster, influences respiratory frequency, heart rate, integrates the facial nerves and media the responses of social engagement, preferential responses for maintaining safety in the face of dangers.
These three systems are hierarchical and are activated in sequence when, even implicitly, the system detects a danger.
Implicit monitoring, neurocection
Polivagal theory also explains how neurocection is a system of implicit monitoring which continuously verifies the safety conditions of both our internal environment (sensations, emotions and thoughts) and the external environment and interpersonal space.
This unaware evaluation triggers the physiological defense mechanisms that prepare to face any risk and set in motion the mobilization responses even before the information reaches awareness.
This implicit function can clearly suffer influences from life experiences and generate inconsistent responses, such as the difficulty in calm down in secure environments or, on the contrary, not to be able to activate the attack-bugs in the face of danger.
The social engagement system and choregulation
As we said, the social engagement system is the response to danger, more recent and more refined, in which the system is regulated quickly, thanks to the myelinization of the branch, entering into connection with the other and contacting an evolutionaryly advantageous evolutionary condition.
The social engagement system It is crucial for the creation and maintenance of healthy and satisfactory interpersonal relationships. When we are involved in pleasant conversations, we support someone’s gaze or we connect emotionally, our social engagement system is active, allowing us to develop a sense of mutual trust and intimacy.
These positive social interactions have the power to Reduce stress and promote emotional well -being.
Polivagal theory and its applications in psychotherapy
Polivagal theory has large applications in psychotherapy, since it provides a more in -depth understanding of the physiological mechanisms underlying some problems and responses to trauma.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy, which works to change the dysfunctional beliefs that support symptoms and suffering It can make use of the lung theory To understand and direct interventions that aim to support these changes.
Here are some of the main applications:
- Emotional regulation: Understanding of the different states of the autonomous nervous system allows therapists to help patients develop emotional regulation skills. This can be particularly useful for people with mood disorders, trauma or anxiety disorders. The TCC focuses on understanding and modifying dysfunctional thoughts and behavior. Polivagal theory adds a crucial dimension: emotional regulation by regulating the nervous system. Therapists can teach technical patients to regulate their physiological activation status, promoting a sense of safety and calm. Integrating body awareness exercises can help patients identify and regulate their physical responses to associated emotions and beliefs. This can help prevent the discomfort of defensive responses, often associated with an incongruous perception of danger.
- Trauma treatment: Polivagal theory can be used to inform the approach to trauma therapy. It helps therapists to understand how the body reacts to traumatic memories and how to help patients feel safe during the processing process.
- Mindfulness and body practices: The use of mindfulness and body practices can promote well -being by regulating the autonomous nervous system. The awareness of the breath and body sensations can encourage the transition from the alarm status to that of safety.
- Interpersonal connection: Polivagal theory underlines the importance of interpersonal connection for emotional well -being. It helps therapists to understand how relationships can influence the regulation of the nervous system and how to improve the connection with patients.
Conclusions
Stephen Porges’ pulvagal theory represents a significant step in our understanding of how the autonomous nervous system influences our mental health and our responses to trauma.
Its applications in cognitive-behavioral therapy and trauma therapy are changing clinical practice, allowing therapists to adapt their approaches according to the physiological and psychological needs of patients.
While the theory continues to be studied and developed, it is clear that the connection between mind and body is crucial for mental health.
Polivagal theory reminds us that to help people overcome challenges, we must also consider the biological processes that are at the base. Psychotherapy is evolving, embracing this wider understanding of the human being and opening new doors for treatment and emotional well -being.
Bibliography
- Dana, D. (2019). Polivagal theory in therapy: take part in the rhythm of the regulation. Rome: Giovanni Fioriti
- Montano, A. & Iiadeluca, V. (2023) The pulvagal theory in practice. Wired to Connect: a theoretical-expanding program for groups. Trento: Erickson
- Porges SW (1992). Vagal Tone: A Physiological Marker of Stress Vulnerability. Pediatrics, 90(3 pt 2), 498–504.
- Porges, SW, Doussard-Roosevelt, Ja, & Maiti, Ak (1994). Vagal Tone and the Physiological Regulation of Emotion. Monographs of the Society for Research in Child Development, 59(2-3), 167–186.
- Porges SW (2021). Polyvagal Theory: A BioBehavioral Journey to Sociality. Comprehensive psychoneuroendocrinology, 7100069.
