Describe the catastrophe theory of arousal.

Discuss how positive emotions may influence an athlete’s performance.

shows that there is a link between arousal and performance;

there is an optimum level of arousal where performance is also maximised;

when arousal is too high performance drops off rapidly;

it uses cognitive anxiety and «physiological» arousal to predict performance;

the catastrophe occurs when both anxiety and «physiological» arousal are too high;

the optimal levels of arousal are different for different people/events.

1 mark max for accurate diagram

[3 max]

excitement masks pain / fatigue / stress / stimulates adrenaline;

relief/positive emotions could calm the nerves and increase confidence;

joy creates a positive mind set and makes it more likely that they will be optimally aroused;

pride will improve motivation and striving to achieve;

Positive outcome in a previous situation can lead to positive emotions and thus a positive mindset / more focused and on task;

Positive emotions can lead to increased energy levels/improved physical endurance/ improved performance.

[2 max]

Majority of candidates only received 2 marks, as if they failed to note that there were ‘3 marks’ awarded.

Could have been answered better with specific details rather than guesswork and generic answers.