Trauma has profound effects on mental health, physical wellbeing, and all kinds of relationships. Many factors shape how people experience and recover from trauma, which can cause changes such as hypervigilance for danger, pain or numbness, digestive and appetite problems, disrupted sleep, sexual difficulties, and fibromyalgia. Through cutting-edge neuroscience and global collaborations, our research uncovers the mechanisms behind trauma’s impact and informs strategies that support healing and improve recovery outcomes.
Trauma
What we study
- Physical and psychological effects of trauma
- Informing clinical care
- Sexual dysfunction
- Neuroregulation of bodily processes
- Supporting survivors of trauma
Traumatic Stress Research Consortium
The Kinsey Institute's Traumatic Stress Research Consortium is a collaborative research initiative with clinicians examining changes to physiology, health, and mental wellbeing following trauma. It also examines the impact of traumatic stress on social behavior, sexual function, and intimacy. If you are interested in joining the Consortium as a participating clinician, please email trauma@iu.edu.
About polyvagal theory
Our research in trauma is informed by the polyvagal theory, developed by IU Distinguished University Scientist Dr. Stephen Porges. The theory centers around the Vagus nerve, which is the longest nerve in the body and part of the parasympathetic system that regulates functions like our breathing, heart rate, and digestion.
The polyvagal theory explains how our autonomic nervous system exists in one of three main states, each activated based on perceived safety or threat:
- Ventral Vagal State (Social Engagement): This state is associated with feelings of safety, connection, and social engagement.
- Sympathetic State (Fight-or-Flight): This state is activated when danger is perceived, triggering the fight-or-flight response, characterized by increased heart rate, rapid breathing, and heightened alertness.
- Dorsal Vagal State (Freeze): This state is activated in response to overwhelming or prolonged threat, leading to a state of immobilization or "shutdown".
Additional resources
- Learn more about our work related to sexual violence