• Misconceptions of polyvagal theory?

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    Andrew Huberman has addressed some of the misconceptions surrounding polyvagal theory. A significant misconception is the over-simplified way it is often discussed in non-expert circles, where psychological and physical manifestations are inaccurately linked to the activity of different parts of the vagus nerve. He criticizes the incorrect mapping of psychological attributes to the physiological structures of the vagus nerve, which are not supported by current scientific understanding. Dr. Huberman also points out that the initial formulations of the theory, while innovative at the time, do not fully align with modern anatomical knowledge. Some people extend the theory beyond its scientific basis to diagnose conditions based on vague and speculative associations with vagal nerve functions, which he sees as problematic 1.

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