Arousal and drive theory

Overview

Arousal and the reticular activating system, Hull's drive theory and P = f(D × H), habit strength and the dominant response, experts and beginners, and the weightlifter's pre-lift routine.

What you need to know

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Questions from this subtopic

Each one with the model answer underneath.

1. 1

   What is arousal?

   Model answer

   Arousal is a physiological and psychological state of alertness and readiness for action. Arousal ranges from deep sleep to intense excitement.

2. 2

   Which parts of the nervous system regulate arousal?

   Model answer

   The reticular activating system in the brain regulates arousal. The sympathetic nervous system then raises heart rate and triggers the release of adrenaline.

3. 3

   What relationship between arousal and performance does drive theory propose?

   Model answer

   Drive theory proposes a linear, positive relationship between arousal and performance. Performance rises steadily as arousal increases.

4. 4

   Who proposed drive theory, and what is its formula?

   Model answer

   Clark Hull proposed drive theory. The formula is performance = habit strength × drive, written P = f(H × D).

5. 5

   What does drive mean in drive theory?

   Model answer

   Drive is the performer's level of arousal, or motivation to act. Higher drive increases the likelihood of the dominant response.

6. 6

   What is habit strength in drive theory?

   Model answer

   Habit strength is how well learned a skill is. Habit strength grows with practice and decides whether the dominant response is correct.

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