Psychological refractory period (PRP)

Question 1

What is PRP?

Answer 1

A period immediately following stimulation during which a nerve or muscle is unresponsive to further stimulation

Question 2

Explain PRP in more detail

Answer 2

If we encounter a first stimulus we react to it quickly, if this is followed by a second stimulus quickly after the first our reaction time is significantly slowed, single channel mechanism. It is thought this is because we are still busy dealing with the first stimulus

Question 3

How do we avoid PRP?

Answer 3

If there are 2 stimulus presented very close together, less than 50 microseconds, the two tend to be grouped together and processed simultaneously therefore avoiding PRP

Question 4

How is PRP used to an advantage in sport?

Answer 4

In sport a performer can try to increase the reaction time of their opponent by presenting certain false information through a stance or movement, dummy. The opponent then processes this information in order to prepare and initiate a response. Once the player changes the move the opponent must then re-evaluate the situation and react to the second set of stimuli, slowing their reaction.