The Site
Literature Review · Source Research
The Science
Predictive processing, constructed emotion theory, allostatic regulation, memory reconsolidation, polyvagal theory, and the problem of working at the language layer in a system built bottom-up. Cited. Updated as the field develops.
READ →
Extended Essay · Polyvagal · Research Review
The Ventral Vagal Stream
Three streams, not two. The sympathetic closes the update window. The DMN annotates the prior without revising it. Only the ventral vagal stream — curious, pre-linguistic, non-solving — can update the prior in real time. The research behind it: polyvagal theory, open monitoring, MDMA-assisted therapy, Panksepp's PLAY system.
READ →
Visual Reference · Architecture
The Diagrams
Two visual maps of the model — the full signal stream from tank and burners through four gates, and the compression gate architecture showing why updates travel one level at a time backward.
OPEN →
Theoretical Paper · Original Contributions
The Whitepaper
The full theoretical synthesis — where the model extends beyond established findings, original hypotheses, the four-domain constitutional architecture, permeability as the missing clinical variable, identity-layer rigidity in two directions, and honest contact as the target. Formatted for citation.
OPEN →
About · Sarah Martinez, LCSW
About This Work
About Sarah Martinez and the theoretical foundations of the model. The full reference list — predictive processing, attachment theory, complexity science, and embodied cognition.
OPEN →