Arousal Flashcards
Definition of arousal
A state of readiness or alertness of an individual to perform a task.
(Varies on a continuum from deep sleep to extreme excitement)
Factors increasing arousal
- level of comp
- prize rewards
- team trials(evaluation)
- crowds watching
- not playing well
4 Theories of Arousal?
1) Hull’s drive theory
2) The inverted U theory
3) Catastrophe Theory
4) The Zone of Optimal Functioning
Hills Drive Theory
Limitar relationship between arousal and performance.
Autonomous/Simple task - ⬆️arousal =dominant response correct =⬆️ performance
Cognitive/complex task- ⬆️ arousal= dominant response incorrect = ⬇️ performance
- Doesn’t recognise over and under arousal
- Not recognise different arousal for different skill
- top athletes may still fail
Inverted U Theory + and - and explain
As arousal ⬆️ some does performance until Optimal Level of Arousal and then there’s a ⬇️ in performance.
✅has OLA
✅flexible for different skills
✅recognises under and over arousal
❌not always gradual drop
❌sometimes steep drop
OLA differs according to … (3)
Type of skill- gross need high arousal and fine need lower
Learning stage- autonomous can cope with higher levels cognitive can’t
Personality- extrovert RAS (Reticular Activating System) reduces incoming stimuli so can cope with higher arousal. Introverts RAS enhance incoming stimuli so can’t cope with high arousal.
Catastrophe Theory
Like inverted U until OLA when if anxiety and high arousal there is a steep drop in performance - ‘catastrophe’
To recover required mental toughness.
The Zone of Optimal Functioning
Inverted U but with zone not point.
ZOF= an energised yet controlled frame of mind that’s focused on task
Being in ZOF can lead to peak flow experience
Characteristics of peak flow experience
- Appear to be perfect
- Clear Goals
- Effortless movement
- complete absorption/ total focus
- feeling of self control
