Biological Theories II - Polyvagal Theory

This set of vocabulary flashcards covers the evolutionary aspects, neuroanatomical structures, and clinical applications of Polyvagal Theory as presented in the lecture notes.

Polyvagal Theory

An integrated theory developed by Stephen Porges in 1995 focusing on the evolutionary development of the vegetative nervous system and its role in social behavior and emotion regulation.

Phylogeny

The history of the evolution of a species or group.

Sinus node

The component of the heart whose frequency defines heart rate; in mammals, it beats at approximately $200 ext{ beats per minute}$ but is inhibited by the vagus nerve to an average of $ext{~ }72 ext{ / min}$.

Dorsal vagal complex (DVC)

An ancient unmyelinated vagal system shared with cartilaginous fish that regulates the intestines, heart, and lungs, associated with immobilization or "freeze" responses under life-threatening conditions.

Ventral vagal complex (VVC)

The newest evolutionary vagal function in mammals, consisting of myelinated axons starting from the nucleus ambiguus, which allows for social engagement and face-heart connection.

Neuroception

The process through which the nervous system evaluates risk (safety, danger, or life threat) without requiring conscious awareness.

Vagal brake

The myelinated vagus (VVC) function that regulates cardiac output to support internal homeostasis and inhibits sympathetic activation.

Nucleus ambiguus

The brainstem nucleus in mammals from which primary vagal efferent pathways regulating the heart originate, facilitating the social engagement system.

Hyperarousal zone

A state of sympathetic activation characterized by heart rate increase, faster breathing, muscle tension, and racing thoughts (fight or flight).

Hypoarousal zone

A state of dorso-vagal immobilization reaction characterized by numbness, disconnectedness, and total shutdown.

Tolerance window

The optimum arousal zone where an individual can effectively manage emotional responses and maintain social reactions.

Tend and befriend

An alternative stress response suggested by Shelley E. Taylor, distinct from the classic fight or flight response.

James J. Gross's Emotion Regulation Model

A five-step process for managing emotions: choosing the situation, changing the situation, attention modification, cognitive reframing, and changing the response.

Rogers' triad

The three core conditions for a therapeutic relationship: congruence, unconditional positive regard, and empathy.

Social Engagement System

A system involving the myelinated vagus and cranial nerves V, VII, IX, and XI that controls facial expressions, vocalization, and listening to promote spontaneous connection with others.