Arousal: Drive Theory

Question 1

Drive theory

Answer 1

As arousal increases so does performance
Linear relationship/ positive correlation between performance and arousal

Question 2

What does drive theory say as arousal increases?

Answer 2

A dominant response is more likely
Learned behaviour/ stored motor programmes are dominant responses

Question 3

Strengths of the drive theory

Answer 3

It explains high performance by experts at high arousal because;
- their dominant response likely to be correct
- experts can cope with higher levels of arousal

Question 4

Weaknesses of the drive theory

Answer 4

Not applicable to beginners because;
- their dominant response bond likely to be incorrect
- low performance at high arousal
Linear relationship hardly ever occurs
Doesn’t take into account nature of the task or ability of performer
Doesn’t explain how performance can produce high performance at low arousal
Disregards the impact or over arousal for elite performers
Simplistic