Practice question · Sort into groups
Sort each task by whether it performs best at higher or lower arousal.
Groups: Best at higher arousal · Best at lower arousal
- A simple, overlearned routine
- A rehearsed, physically dominant sprint
- Delicate, novel problem-solving under time pressure
- Learning an unfamiliar, complex skill for the first time
Hints
- Simple and well-practiced tolerates high arousal; complex and novel needs it low.
- Physical, drilled tasks lean high; cognitive, unfamiliar tasks lean low.
Show the answer
Best at higher arousal: A rehearsed, physically dominant sprint, A simple, overlearned routine
Best at lower arousal: Delicate, novel problem-solving under time pressure, Learning an unfamiliar, complex skill for the first time
Why
Simple, well-practiced, physical tasks perform best at higher arousal; complex, novel, cognitive tasks perform best at lower arousal. The optimal arousal shifts down as tasks get harder - the core applied lesson of Yerkes-Dodson.
Practise Human Needs and Arousal Theories
The app has 6 more questions on this lesson, and keeps your place in the course. Psychology I is free to start.
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