Neuroception
The unconscious process by which the nervous system evaluates risk in the environment and determines whether situations or people are safe, dangerous, or life-threatening. Influences autonomic nervous system responses.
Overview
Neuroception is a concept from polyvagal theory that describes how the nervous system unconsciously evaluates safety and threat in the environment.
Detailed Description
Neuroception happens below the level of conscious awareness - it's the nervous system's automatic assessment of whether we're safe, in danger, or facing a life-threatening situation. This process influences which branch of the autonomic nervous system activates: the ventral vagal (social engagement) system for safety, the sympathetic (fight/flight) system for danger, or the dorsal vagal (freeze) system for life threat. For individuals with ADHD, neuroception may be particularly sensitive, leading to frequent activation of stress responses even in relatively safe situations.
How This Relates to ADHD
Understanding neuroception helps explain why individuals with ADHD may experience heightened stress responses, sensory sensitivities, and social challenges. It's part of the polyvagal theory framework for understanding nervous system regulation.
Treatment and Management
Creating safe environments, practicing nervous system regulation techniques, and understanding one's own neuroceptive patterns can help individuals with ADHD feel safer and more regulated.
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