There’s plenty of stress among tech professionals. Software engineers, for instance, show more burnout and have higher suicide rates than other tech workers, according to a 2023 study. Tech also has its own set of free-floating anxiety in the form of layoffs and accompanying budget cuts.
It doesn’t have to be that way. This article will explore an important theory of neuroscience that employees and employers can use to create a calmer and calming workplace.
What Is Polyvagal Theory?
Polyvagal theory details how the nervous system detects safety or threat (neuroception) and regulates behaviors accordingly through three primary states: the safe and social engagement state, the fight-or-flight state and the immobilization state.
Polyvagal theory explains how the vagus nerve influences our physiological state, particularly in response to stress and social engagement. The theory introduces the concept of neuroception, which describes how each person’s brain automatically scans the environment for signs of safety or danger in an unconscious and instinctual manner.
What Is Polyvagal Theory?
Polyvagal theory details how the nervous system detects safety or threat (neuroception) and regulates behaviors accordingly through three primary states: the safe and social engagement state, the fight-or-flight state and the immobilization state. This theory helps us understand the connection between our physiological responses and emotional and social behaviors.
Understanding and recognizing polyvagal theory can help managers and employees set up a work environment that is as low stress as possible. Knowing what fosters the safe and social engagement state, and avoiding triggers that lead to fighting, fleeing or freezing (immobilization) can have profound impact on team performance. Here are tips on how to use these principles to create a low-stress work environment.
Create a Safe Work Space
Employers and employees both can use neuroscience principles to create a workplace that feels safe and inviting and helps everyone do their best work.
Physical Workspace Design
Employers can incorporate elements that reduce stress and promote a sense of safety. This can include ergonomic furniture, natural lighting and quiet zones where employees can take breaks from the sensory overload of open office spaces.
Flexible Scheduling
Leaders should recognize that rigid schedules can activate the sympathetic nervous system, which is associated with stress responses. Introducing flexible working hours and the possibility to work remotely can help employees manage their own physiological state, allowing them to work when they feel most calm and focused.
Use of Personal Space
Employees should personalize their workspace with items that make them feel comfortable and safe, such as plants, personal photos or calming colors.
Mindful Breaks
Take regular breaks to engage in activities that activate the parasympathetic nervous system, like deep breathing, stretching or walking.
Improve Communication
Everyone in an organization can improve how safety and threat are neuroceptively perceived through communication styles, enhancing trust and reducing misunderstandings in a diverse workplace.
Cultural Sensitivity Training
Provide training that helps employees understand different cultural expressions and norms, which can affect how safety or threat is perceived. This is especially important in diverse teams, where misinterpretations can occur.
Open and Supportive Communication Channels
Establish and maintain open lines of communication. Encourage managers and team leads to regularly check in with their teams in ways that signal safety, such as using open body language and a calm tone of voice.
Feedback Delivery
When giving feedback, be conscious of your tone and body language. Aim to convey support and collaboration rather than criticism.
Active Listening
Show engagement and understanding in your interactions with colleagues, which can make them feel heard and safe.
Manage Stress and Conflict
Use polyvagal theory to better manage stress and conflict in the workplace, ensuring employees feel supported and secure.
Stress Management Programs
Implement programs that teach stress management techniques, such as mindfulness, yoga or meditation classes, which help activate the vagal pathways associated with calm and relaxation.
Conflict Resolution Protocols
Develop clear protocols for conflict resolution that emphasize empathy and understanding. Train managers in these methods to ensure they can act as effective mediators.
Personal Stress Awareness
Be aware of your own signs of stress and take proactive steps to manage them. This might include speaking to a manager about your workload or using company-provided mental health resources.
Engaging in Resolution
When involved in a conflict, engage constructively and empathetically, focusing on the issue rather than the person.
A basic understanding of neuroscience, particularly polyvagal theory and polyvagal neuroception, equips leaders to make more informed and effective decisions. By respecting both the intuitive and analytical aspects of the mind, leaders can navigate the complexities of the tech world with greater confidence and success.
