The social brain and heart rate variability: Implications for psychotherapy

ConclusionsOur knowledge of the social brain and its physiological underpinnings might influence important elements of a therapeutic intervention, from the initial assessment of patient's difficulties to the evaluation of therapy outcomes.Practitioner points Social relationships have emotional and self ‐regulating properties. The experience of inter‐ and intrapersonal safeness is connected to prosocial motives, such as compassion, and the inhibitory function of the prefrontal cortex. Social relationships and compassion influence different body systems, such as the vagus nerve. Many forms of psychopathology represent the activation of evolved, defensive strategies especially in contexts where there are few stimuli indicating safeness and social support. Heart rate variability predicts psychotherapy outcome.
Source: Psychology and Psychotherapy: Theory, Research and Practice - Category: Psychiatry & Psychology Authors: Tags: Special Issue Paper Source Type: research