Effective communication with participants in court hearings: using polyvagal theory in the courtroom

Abstract

The polyvagal theory introduces the premise that the autonomic nervous system (ANS) has an essential role in detecting threats and calming social engagement. In busy courtrooms, the subtle nuances of communication can be missed or overlooked. Messages of threat activate an autonomic state from calm to agitated beneath conscious awareness. When shifts occur, information can be misunderstood or misinterpreted, resulting in overly defensive responses from all parties. The polyvagal theory suggests a perspective that encourages self-reflection and awareness to counterbalance the inevitable physical and mental stress of managing todays’ courtrooms.