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