Because neuroception is an automatic process that does not require cognitive processing, it may yield faulty results, including a misinterpretation of situations in the environment. This is because the brain can’t access rational thinking or communication skills when it is in a threat mode.

Polyvagal Theory is premised on the idea that neuroception plays a key role in the nervous system’s ability to assess danger in the environment. Neuroception is a neurophysiological response that does not involved cognitive processing. When cognitive processing is not involved, the result may lead to misinterpretation of, and an ability to accurately assess situations: executive functioning including rational thinking and communication skills are lost to physiological response.