Arousal - Inverted U and Catastrophe theory

Question 1

What is the Inverted U theory?

Answer 1

A theory linking arousal and performance by stating that increased arousal improves performance to an optimal point at moderate arousal levels.

Question 2

What is the catastrophe theory?

Answer 2

A theory suggesting that increased arousal improves performance to an optimal point but there is a dramatic reduction in performance when arousal increases beyond the optimal.

Question 3

What is under-arousal also known as?

Answer 3

Boredom - performance levels are low

Question 4

What is optimal arousal also known as?

Answer 4

Moderate - performance levels are high

Question 5

What is over-arousal also known as?

Answer 5

Panic - deterioration in performance

Question 6

What factors affect the optimum level of arousal?

Answer 6

• Experience
• Personality
• The task

Question 7

How does the optimum level of arousal in cognitive performers differ from autonomous performers?

Answer 7

• Doesn’t work well under pressure
• High probability of poor performance
• Needs to operate at lower levels of arousal to not become too agitated and stay calm

Question 8

How does the optimum level of arousal in autonomous performers differ from cognitive performers?

Answer 8

• Used to dealing with pressure so can deal with tasks effectively
• High levels of performance at high levels of arousal.

Question 9

How does the optimum level of arousal in extroverts differ from introverts?

Answer 9

• Operate at higher levels of arousal to get best performance
• Have naturally low levels of activation so can tolerate any increases in arousal

Question 10

How does the optimum levels of arousal in introverts differ from extroverts?

Answer 10

• Operate at much lower levels of arousal for best performance
• Have naturally high levels of adrenaline, therefore work better at lower levels of arousal

Question 11

How does optimum arousal differ between gross and fine tasks?

Answer 11

Gross - Tasks using large muscle groups can be performed at high levels of arousal
Fine - Tasks using small muscle groups, which focus on precision and control - will be better performed at low levels of arousal

Question 12

How does optimum arousal differ between simple and complex tasks?

Answer 12

Simple - Requires low decision making = executed at high levels of arousal
Complex - involves decision making and ability to process large amounts of info - therefore may need to work at lower levels of arousal

Question 13

What does the catastrophe theory suggest?

Answer 13

That increased arousal causes a sudden dramatic reduction in performance (not gradual!)

Question 14

What is somatic anxiety?

Answer 14

Physiological anxiety

Question 15

What is cognitive anxiety?

Answer 15

Psychological anxiety

Question 16

What is the catastrophe theory caused by?

Answer 16

High levels of both somatic and cognitive anxieties.

Question 17

How and when can a performer regain control after the sudden reduction in performance?

Answer 17

If the initial cause of the anxiety is mild and the performer has time to recover then a performer can use stress management techniques to reduce arousal.

Question 18

What happens if a performer fails to regain control?

Answer 18

Panic occurs, causing a further increase in arousal and a further decrease in performance

Question 19

Give a sporting example of the catastrophe theory

Answer 19

Harry Kane missed penalty against France in the quarter finals of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar