Arousal

Question 1

How was the drive theory adapted?

Answer 1

Performers dominant habit would be more evident as arousal levels increased

Question 2

Equation for drive theory ?

Answer 2

Performance = function (dominant habit x level of arousal )

Question 3

What does the drive theory suggest about inexperienced performers ?

Answer 3

As arousal increases, they’ll perform dominant habit which is a not well learned skill therefore performance won’t improve

Question 4

What does the drive theory not explain about autonomous performers ?

Answer 4

Why they make simple mistakes

Question 5

Inverted U theory suggests ?

Answer 5

Level of performance only increases to an optimum level as arousal increases

Question 6

What factors affect an individual’s optimum level of arousal ?

Answer 6

Nature of task 
- fine or gross
-complex or simple
Skill level of performer 
-experienced or inexperienced 
Personality 
-extrovert or introvert

Question 7

What does the catastrophe theory suggest ?

Answer 7

Increase in cognitive arousal will increase performance levels

Question 8

What happens if arousal levels drop slightly when Over aroused ?

Answer 8

Performer can recover with supportive words and stress management techniques

Question 9

If cognitive and somatic anxiety increase continually what happens ?

Answer 9

Not able to recover

Question 10

What does zone of optimal functioning suggest ?

Answer 10

There isn’t a specific point but an optimal band where optimum arousal is

Question 11

Characteristics of being in the zone ?

Answer 11

• movement feels effortless
• effectively select cues and make decisions quickly
• remain focused

Question 12

What is attentional narrowing ?

Answer 12

Using cue utilisation,
Detect cues required to complete task successfully
If arousal levels too high, miss vital cues
Or detect irrelevant cues ( attentional wastage )

Question 13

Characteristics of peak flow ?

Answer 13

• total ability
• clear goals
• absorption in activity
• totally focussed
• apparent loss of consciousness
• effortless movement

Question 14

How to develop peak flow?

Answer 14

• positive attitude
• relaxed and controlled anxiety
• focussing on appropriate cues
• confidence in physical readiness
• optimum environment and situation conditions
• good interaction
• balanced emotional state

Question 15

What can disrupt flow?

Answer 15

• injury or fatigue
• crowd, worry or lack of challenge
• negative self talk, poor officials

Question 16

What does the drive theory suggest ?

Answer 16

Linear relationship between arousal levels and performance