The polyvagal theory : Overview and current limitations

Abstract

The observed relationship between heart rate variability and psychopathology has given way to numerous theoretical interpretations. The most popular explanatory model is currently Porge's polyvagal theory, which links the development of the autonomous nervous system to specific human behaviors in an evolutionary perspective. We first detail its hypothesizes and their clinical consequences. We then present the impact of new physiological and zoological data. On one hand, the respiratory sinusal arrhytmia is found outside mammals, which contradicts the supposed phylogenetic sequence. On the other hand, the stimulation of the dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus does not cause the neurogenetic bradycardia predicted by Porges. In light of these discoveries, we examine the current validity of the polyvagal theory. The alternative model of the neurovisceral integration model is thereafter presented and suggested as a future way to investigate the links between the autonomous nervous system and behaviours.