Polyvagal Insights in Workplace Conflict

This innovative workshop applies Polyvagal Theory to understanding and resolving workplace conflicts. Participants will learn how the nervous system influences our responses to stress and conflict, and develop practical skills for creating psychologically safe environments that foster collaboration and effective conflict resolution.

Workshop Overview

Polyvagal Theory, developed by Dr. Stephen Porges, offers a revolutionary framework for understanding how our autonomic nervous system shapes our responses to workplace challenges and interpersonal conflicts. This workshop translates neuroscience into practical tools for recognizing physiological states, managing conflict triggers, and creating conditions for productive dialogue and resolution in professional settings.

Learning Objectives

Understand the three states of the autonomic nervous system (ventral vagal, sympathetic, dorsal vagal) and their impact on workplace behavior.
Recognize physiological signs of stress and dysregulation in yourself and others during conflict.
Learn techniques for self-regulation and co-regulation to facilitate constructive conversations.
Apply the concept of "neuroception" to create psychologically safe workplace environments.
Develop strategies for de-escalating conflict by addressing nervous system states
Practice polyvagal-informed approaches to difficult conversations and team dynamics.

Expected Outcomes

Participants will leave with:

A neuroscience-based understanding of conflict responses and triggers.
Practical self-regulation techniques for managing stress and remaining grounded.
Skills for recognizing when colleagues are in defensive or shutdown states.
Strategies for fostering psychological safety and connection in teams.
A personalized toolkit for applying polyvagal principles to workplace challenges
Resources for continued exploration of nervous system awareness and regulation.

Transform your approach to workplace conflict by understanding the neuroscience behind human behavior and developing skills that promote safety, connection, and effective collaboration.

This session will be facilitated by Dr. Betty Snyder, DU's Ombuds, in partnership with HRIC's office of Talent Acquisition & Development.

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Co-hosted with: Human Resources & Inclusive Community, Talent Acquisition and Development , Ombuds Office (OWNER)

Contact the organizers