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