Arousal Theories

Question 1

Inverted U theory

Answer 1

• performance levels will be at the highest at their optimum level (usually moderate levels of arousal)
• then will be lower if the arousal is too high or low, performance levels will decrease due to not being physiologically or psychologically ready

Question 2

Drive theory

Answer 2

• suggest that as arousal increases so does the performance = linear relationship
• more ‘learned’ a skill is higher Kevin’s if arousal are likely to lead to better performance
• little evidence as it showed arousal increases performance up to a certain point

Question 3

Catastrophe theory

Answer 3

• expands on the inverted U theory
• difference is the drop in performance isn’t a steady decrease
• performance and arousal behaviour in inverted U fashion when individuals has low levels of cognitive anxiety
• it suggest when performing at high levels, athletes will have a degree of cognitive anxiety (negative thoughts) as attention and concentration levels increase to optimal threshold
• performance levels decrease dramatically when high levels of cognitive anxiety are combined with hyper-elevated levels of arousal

Question 4

Symptoms

Answer 4

• increasing of adrenaline triggering the fight or flight response
  -worrying
• inability to concentrate
• decrease in sports performance
• reduces athletes well-being

Question 5

Physical affects

Answer 5

• clammy hands
• nausea
• increased heart rate
• shortness of breath
• choking
• hot flush
• chills

Question 6

Behaviour symptoms

Answer 6

• rushing
• talking quickly
• fidgeting

Question 7

Consequences

Answer 7

• negative mental state
• loss if self confidence
• decrement in performance
• possible injury
• aggression