Arousal Flashcards
Define arousal
A level of activation, a degree of readiness to perform
What are the 4 theories of arousal
Drive theory
Inverted U theory
Catastrophe theory
Zone of optimal functioning theory
Define drive theory
As arousal increases, so does performance
What is the equation for drive theory
P=f(DxH)
Define dominant response
The standout response that the performer thinks is correct
What happens at high arousal during drive theory
Less info is processed and performer tends to concentrate on the dominant response
What is the issue with the dominant response
A beginners dominant response may not be developed so they may choose the wrong option and performance may decrease
Example of dominant response
A pro golfer will perform well with high arousal
A novice would perform poorly
Define inverted U theory
Performance increases as arousal does, up to an optimal point, then an increase in arousal causes a fall in performance
Define Catastrophe theory
As arousal increases, so does performance up to an optimal point then a sudden decrease in performance
Why does Catastrophe theory occur
Due to high levels of somatic and cognitive anxieties
Define the zone of optimal functioning
Area of controlled arousal and high level of performance
Define peak flow
The ultimate intrinsic experience felt by athletes from a positive mental attitude with supreme confidence focus and efficiency
Factors affecting the peak flow experience
–Failure to reach optimal arousal levels
–Environmental influences e.g. pressure from crowd or frustration from refs decision
–Fatigue, Stop the player keeping up with the flow experience
