Arousal (Hanin's Zone and Peak flow)

Question 1

What is the zone of optimal functioning?

Answer 1

Psychologist Hanin studied the inverted-U theory and made adaptions to it suggests that increases in arousal can improve performance. Optimal level of arousal does vary for individual players from high to low but rather than a point of optimal arousal, the best level in sport for maximum confidence the zone is a mental state that autonomous performers only experience once or twice in their career

Question 2

What is ‘In the zone’

Answer 2

Performing at optimal arousal levels, feeling completely calm, complete attentional control (concentrated on task), performing on autopilot, feeling completely confident that success is inevitable, Performing smoothly efficiently and effortlessly, total control leading to ‘peak flow experience’

Question 3

What is the peak flow experience?

Answer 3

The peak flow is the ultimate positive psychological state for a performer, vary rare and intense, it happens when timing, action and movement appear to be perfect

Question 4

What are characteristics of peak flow experience?

Answer 4

It is the ultimate intrinsic experience, belied in ability to complete the challenge, clear goal, total focus, positive attitude, effortless movement, subconscious feeling of control, in the zone of optimal functioning

Question 5

What factors affect peak flow?

Answer 5

it might not always be possible to achieve peak flow experience, for the following reasons:
1. Poor mental preparation: Therefore, failure to reach optimum level or arousal
2. Environmental influences: such as pressure from the crowd, challenge perceived as too difficult/easy or frustration caused by a referees decision
3. Effect of injury/fatigue: will stop a performer keeping up with the flow experience