Arousal

Question 1

Define arousal

Answer 1

the energised state of readiness of the individual to perform a task, motivating him or her to direct his or her behaviour in a particular manner

Question 2

What are the 3 theories of arousal

Answer 2

Drive theory
Inverted U theory
Catastrophe theory

Question 3

What is drive theory

Answer 3

A theory suggesting a linear relationship between arousal and performance

Question 4

What is the RAS

Answer 4

Reticular activating system, a cluster of brain cells located in the central part of the brain stem, which maintain levels of arousal

Question 5

What does somatic mean

Answer 5

Refers to the physiological changes which the performer experiences

Question 6

What does Inverted U theory suggest

Answer 6

As arousal levels increase so does the performance but only up to an optimum point after which performance deteriorates

Question 7

What will effect the optimum point in the inverted U theory

Answer 7

Nature of the task
Skill level of the performer
Personality of the performer

Question 8

What is Catastrophe theory

Answer 8

suggest an increase in cognitive arousal will improve performance but if over aroused one of two options will occur. A performer may be able to recover or performance may deteriorate both in terms of cognitive anxiety and somatic anxiety

Question 9

What is the zone of optimal functioning

Answer 9

The unique level of arousal for each athlete, which allows the athlete to perform with maximum concentration and effort

Question 10

what is attentional narrowing

Answer 10

this links arousal theories directly to the individual’s ability to focus on relevant cues