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