Sport And Exercise Psychology- Fazey And Hardy Flashcards
What was the aim of Fazey and Hardys study?
Theoretical paper to identify limitations with the inverted U theory model of arousal and performance. And making the distinction between somatic and cognitive anxiety.
And to propose an alternative model to explain the relationship between anxiety and performance.
What was the method used in Fazey and Hardys study?
The paper began with a review of problems: difficulties with basic ideas, difficulties with evidence, difficulties with applications.
What were the results found in Fazey and Hardys study?
Difficulties with basic ideas: using terms ‘stress’ ‘arousal’ and ‘anxiety’ interchangeably. Inverted u theory did not explain relationship between anxiety and performance.
Difficulties with evidence: lack of consistent evidence for relationship between anxiety and performance.
Difficulties in applying the model: the inverted u theory predicts when stress exceeds optimum, performance declines, but simply reducing stress will bring back to optimum.
What were the conclusions found in Fazey and Hardys study?
By taking into account the difference between anxiety and arousal and between cognitive and somatic anxiety, the authors have produced a better model of the effect of anxiety and arousal on performance than the inverted u theory.
What applications can be used from Fazey and Hardys study?
Biofeedback
CBT
What is biofeedback?
Somatic. Used to help people exert better control over the physiology. Learn to consciously control physiological state. Involves electronic instruments- eg EEG- brainwaves. GSR - measures sweatiness of skin.
What is CBT?
Cognitive. Identifying and modifying problematic thoughts that increase anxiety. Assessments- what triggers anxiety (sport situation), early experiences (pressure from parents), additional factors that lead to anxiety being maintained (pressure from coach).
Dysfunctional thoughts are identified.
What was the usefulness of research in Fazey and Hardys study?
Has real life applications. Their model predicts that regulating physiological and cognitive anxiety can improve performance. Lagos et Al (2008) describe use of biofeedback of heart rate validity to help a golfer. He achieved his person best.
How does Fazey and Hardys study link to the individual/ situational debate?
Individual differences. Having a level of vulnerability influenced by genetic factors and acquiring anxiety responses through experience.
Situational- team dynamics, leadership etc impact anxiety and performance.
