Inverted-U theory
I can explain and interpret the inverted-U theory of arousal and its impact on performance, including drawing and labelling a graph.
Inverted-U theory
I can explain and interpret the inverted-U theory of arousal and its impact on performance, including drawing and labelling a graph.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- The inverted-U theory illustrates that performance improves with arousal up to an optimal point and then declines.
- The inverted-U graph shows performance on the y-axis, arousal on the x-axis, with a curve shaped like an upside down U.
- Optimal performance occurs at a moderate level of arousal. Arousal levels too high or too low can impair performance.
- Optimal arousal levels differ according to whether the skill being performed is gross or fine.
Keywords
Arousal - a physical (physiological) and mental (psychological) state of alertness/readiness, varying from deep sleep to intense excitement/alertness
Optimal arousal - the arousal level required for peak performance
Inverted-U theory - a theory which relates levels of arousal with performance in sport
Common misconception
The more arousal you have, the better you perform.
The inverted-U theory recognises that after an optimal level of arousal, performance will deteriorate with any further heightening of arsoual levels.
Equipment
Graph paper to draw inverted-U graphs
Licence
Lesson video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
makes it harder to focus
helps you to keep calm
make good decisions
become disinterested
Exit quiz
6 Questions
optimal performance, alert and focused
decreased performance due to lack of energy
decreased performance due to anxiety and stress
