Your Parenting Mojo Podcast Episode on Polyvagal Theory

Introduction

• Host describes this episode as more uncomfortable than previous episodes.
• The discomfort stems from questioning the validity of Polyvagal Theory (PVT), which has been used in host's workshops, amidst a contentious debate in the field of psychology.

Polyvagal Theory Overview

• Developed by Dr. Stephen Porges.
• Three defining principles:
  1. Hierarchy of the Autonomic Nervous System:
     • Safe state: Parasympathetic ventral vagal system activated; person feels safe and open to social engagement and play (ventral vagal state).
     • Mobilized state: Sympathetic nervous system activated; ready to respond to threat (fight or flee).
     • Immobilized state: Parasympathetic dorsal vagal system activated; person is shut down and unable to move.
  2. Autonomic Nervous System Regulation:
     • A built-in surveillance system assessing risk (neuroception).
     • Trauma can cause faulty neuroception, leading to spending time in fight or flight mode unnecessarily.
  3. Co-regulation:
     • Unconscious exchange of safety/danger signals through social engagement system.

Listener's Question

• Listener Nanita questions the scientific support behind PVT, considering it potentially pseudoscientific.
• Nanita contemplates the cultural and societal influences on scientific acceptance.

Research and Criticism of PVT

• Dr. Paul Grossman's ResearchGate post questions evidence supporting PVT premises.
• Grossman's critique highlights lack of evidence for three foundational premises of PVT.
• Three core premises:
  1. Neurogenic brachycardia and RSA mediated by different branches of the vagus.
  2. Neurogenic brachycardia as a vestigial relic of the reptilian brain.
  3. Withdrawal of cardiac vagal tone as a mammalian adaptation.
• Grossman's critique indicates lack of evidence and challenges to these premises.

Scientific Theory and Revisiting PVT

• The definition of a scientific theory as a well-substantiated explanation.
• Questions on the rigidity and validity of PVT over time, lack of updates or revisions to its premises.

Alternative Theories

• Mention of alternative models: Neurovisceral Integration, Biological Behavioral, Resonance Frequency, Psychophysiological Coherence models.
• Theories focus on heart rate variability and emotion regulation.

Evaluating the Use of PVT

• Framework for using theories:
  1. Consider evidence against the theory and its alternatives.
  2. Evaluate potential harm from using the theory.
  3. Assess cultural fit and usefulness of the theory as a myth or story.

Conclusion and Cultural Context

• Discussion on the importance of cultural fit in therapeutic practices.
• Consideration of PVT as a myth or story to make sense of experiences and guide actions.
• References to cultural healing practices and societal narratives in therapy.

Addendum: Scientific and Cultural Considerations

• Emphasis on the need for broader perspectives beyond scientific reductionism.
• Critique of the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) for lack of scientific validation.
• Discussion on the societal implications of passivity encouraged by PVT.

Final Thoughts

• Encouragement to balance safety with awareness of societal issues.
• Acknowledgment of the complexity of integrating scientific, cultural, and personal narratives in understanding and managing psychological experiences.