The Science of Psychotherapy Our Polyvagal World with Stephen and Seth Porges
Sep 5, 2023
In a fascinating discussion, Stephen Porges, a renowned neuroscientist who developed polyvagal theory, teams up with his son, journalist Seth Porges, to unfold their new book, Our Polyvagal World. They share insights on simplifying complex science for public understanding and the importance of non-triggering narratives in discussing trauma. The conversation explores how safety influences creativity, the implications of modern media on well-being, and how polyvagal principles can transform therapy and institutions for the better.
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Polyvagal As A Worldview
- Polyvagal theory is a worldview that explains behavior through shared autonomic nervous systems.
- Seth and Stephen stress translating the science into accessible, actionable understanding for everyday people.
Modern Life Hijacks Survival Circuits
- Modern environments hijack ancient survival circuits, driving chronic threat states.
- Those states harm health, resilience, and longevity beyond mere subjective distress.
Make Trauma Writing Non-Triggering
- Write about trauma in a way that informs without retraumatizing readers.
- Use blunt, accessible language to reach people who won't finish dense academic texts.
