coregolazione

Coregolazione, also known as co-regulation, is a psychological concept describing the process of mutual regulation of emotional, physiological, and behavioral states between individuals. It highlights how one person's nervous system can influence and help to stabilize another's, particularly in moments of distress or dysregulation. This interaction is fundamental in early development, where infants rely heavily on caregivers to help them manage their emotional experiences.

The process involves attunement, where individuals become aware of and respond to each other's internal states. A caregiver might soothe a crying infant through gentle touch, soft vocalizations, or rhythmic rocking, thereby helping the infant return to a calmer state. This mutual exchange fosters a sense of safety and security.

Coregulation is not limited to parent-child relationships. It can occur between partners, friends, or even in therapeutic settings between a client and therapist. When individuals are coregulating, they are often unconsciously mirroring each other's physiological signals, such as heart rate or breathing patterns. This shared experience can create a sense of connection and understanding, facilitating emotional processing and resilience.

The capacity for coregulation develops over time. As individuals mature, they internalize the regulatory strategies they experienced in early relationships, leading to greater self-regulation. However, even in adulthood, supportive relationships continue to play a vital role in managing stress and maintaining emotional well-being through ongoing coregulation. This continuous interaction shapes an individual's ability to navigate emotional challenges throughout their life.