Chiroblog

The Polyvagal Theory, developed by Dr. Stephen Porges, explains how our nervous system responds to stress and safety through three levels: social engagement, fight/flight, and freeze. The social engagement system, governed by a part of the cranial nerves called the Ventral Vagus, helps us connect with others and feel safe. When we feel threatened, our sympathetic nervous system activates the fight/flight response, preparing us to either confront or escape danger. If the threat is overwhelming, the dorsal portion of the vagus nerve triggers the freeze response, causing us to shut down and conserve energy[1][2].

When working with children with autism, having an understanding of these levels can be insightful. Many children on the spectrum may have a heightened sensitivity to their environment, causing their nervous system to frequently shift into fight, flight or freeze. This can manifest as anxiety, avoidance, or turn into them shutting down. When you recognize these responses as natural reactions to perceived threats, caregivers and educators can create more supportive environments, which helps to promote feelings of safety and social engagement. This approach can help children with autism feel more secure and connected, ultimately enhancing their ability to interact and learn[3][4].  That is why in designing our office we structurally took into account the Polyvagal perspective to prepare the environment that is more suitable to children with autism, and also changed the way we approach our examinations and adjustments based on making the best possible experience for someone who is neurodivergent.

References

[1] What is Polyvagal Theory? - Polyvagal Institute

[2] The polyvagal perspective - University of Arizona

[3] International Journal of Psychophysiology

[4] How the Polyvagal Theory Inspired My Parenting - Psychology Today