arousal - hanin's zone and peak flow

Question 1

how did Hanin adapt the inverted U theory

Answer 1

rather than a point of optimal arousal, there is a zone of optimal functioning

the ‘zone’ is a mental state that autonomous performers only experience one or twice in their career

Question 2

what are some characeristics of the zone of optimal functioning

Answer 2

performing at optimal arousal levels
feeling completely calm
complete attentional control
performing on autopilot
feeling completely confident that success is inevitable
performing smoothly, efficiently and effortlessly

Question 3

what does Hanin’s zone of optimal functioning diagram look like

Answer 3

sports with low ZOF (marathon)
sports with moderate ZOF (team sports)
sports with high ZOF (sprinters)
on the left column

low to high arousal levels along the bottom

9 squares inbetween, each square is either optimal or suboptimal performance

optimal performance for sports with low ZOF have optimal performance at low arousal, moderate ZOF is at medium arousal, high ZOF is at high arousal

Question 4

once in the zone, when is performance said to improve

Answer 4

you are performing at your optimal level of arousal
things seem to flow effortlessly
the performer reaches a state of supreme confidence and remains calm under the upmost pressure
the performer feels that they are in total control of their actions and totally focused on the activity

these all result in a smooth, effortless performance at the highest level, ebing in the zone can then lead to the ‘peak flow experience’

Question 5

what is the peak flow experience

Answer 5

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

Question 6

characteristics of the peak flow experience

Answer 6

the ultimate intrinsic experience
belief in the ability to complete the challenge
clear goals
total focus
positive attitude
effortless movement
subconcious feeling of control
happens in the zone of optimal functioning

Question 7

what are the three factors affecting peak flow

Answer 7

1. poor mental preparation - therefore, failture to reach optimal level of arousal
2. environmental influences - such as pressurre from the crowd, challenge percieved 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