Post3 Arousal and Perfomance

Arousal is referred to the state of alertness and excitement which impacts how well one can complete a task. Depending on the task arousal can either benefit the efficiency in which someone completes a task or harms the efficiency. According to the Yerkes-Dodson Law, the inverted U-model displays how stimulation increases so does performance, optimal arousal is reached but then begins to decline as arousal keeps growing. The zone of optimal functioning is an idea in sports psychology that every individual has a unique optimal U curve.

Complex tasks vs easy tasks require a different level of arousal to best perform. The Hull-Spence Drive Theory says that in easy tasks the correct response is greater than the incorrect because arousal amplifies the difference allowing them to perform better. In contrast, difficult tasks will have weaker correct responses than incorrect responses. The arousal is so high in difficult tasks incorrect responses became stronger.

The Cusp Catastrophe Model says that cognitive and physical arousal engage to swiftly alter ones performance. While someone is at the cusp of their U curve their cognitive performance is optimal but when arousal continues catastrophe ensues.

I found this subject to be very insightful when it comes to performing in high pressure situations. It's a great reminder to always stay calm and not stress in order to best execute. I am a waitress and sometimes it is very busy and overwhelming; the more I stress the more I have anxiety, resulting in mistakes. When I stay calm and collected, I perform much more efficiently