Arousal

Question 1

drive theory

Answer 1

as arousal increases, so does performance level (linear)

• high arousal- dominant response which is a well learned skill
• autonomous stage- dominant response is more likely to be correct so performance levels are high
• cognitive stage- DR is incorrect so performance levels are low

Question 2

inverted U theory

Answer 2

how personality, experience and skills can impact success
as arousal increases, so does performance, up to an optimum point, then performance decreases
optimum arousal varies depending on the performer
-lower for cognitive performers, introverts or for fine skills
-higher for autonomous, extroverts and gross skills

Question 3

catastrophe theory

Answer 3

accounts for sudden drop in performance once optimum has exceeded
considers effects of somatic and cognitive anxiety
dramatic decrease after optimum if somatic and cognitive anxiety are both high = catastrophe
-can be reversed using relaxation techniques

Question 4

zone of optimum functioning

Answer 4

optimum performance is reaches during a band or zone rather than a single point 
characteristics of zone
-performing at optimum arousal
-feeling completely calm
-complete attentional control
-feeling completely confident 
-performing on autopilot

Question 5

peak flow experience

Answer 5

ultimate positive psychological state for performer
performer is fully concentrated and has complete control
occurs when performer
-is presented with challenge that matches skill level
-has clear goal
-have control of arousal levels
very hard to achieve peak flow and can only be achieved when performer is given task which is realistic but challenges them a bit
too hard and they will get anxiety, too easy and they get bored