Polyvagal Theory, developed by Stephen Porges, provides a neuroscience framework that explains many aspects of decision-making in terms of the nervous system's safety-detection mechanisms.
The Three States of Polyvagal Theory and Decision-Making
Ventral vagal (safe and social): Optimal state for connection, learning, and decision-making management
Sympathetic mobilization (fight or flight): Anxiety-type decision-making responses
Dorsal vagal shutdown (freeze/collapse): Depression and dissociation-type decision-making
Neuroception and Decision-Making
Neuroception — the body's unconscious safety-detection — can be dysregulated in decision-making, causing false alarms (sensing danger when safe) that drive decision-making responses.
Polyvagal-Informed Decision-Making Treatment
Therapy that acknowledges the body's state — helping clients move into ventral vagal 'safe and social' — transforms decision-making management.
Safe relationships, co-regulation, and body-based practices are particularly emphasized.