Question

1) Discuss a time when you have seen anxiety impact someone’s performance? (it does not have to be about you)

2) What techniques might you use to increase or decrease your arousal?

3) How do you think anxiety has impacted your performance in the past?

Psychology of sport

Answer 1

Answer 1- Anxiety can gravely affect one's performance. A few years ago, my very talented sister, who happens to be a football player, had to represent her college team at the inter-college football match. Initially, she was very excited because it was her first time representing her college. However, on the day of the match, she became extremely anxious. She started pacing back and forth in her locker room. She started sweating profusely, struggling to breathe normally. When she was on the field, she went blank and couldn't perform. She started becoming disoriented and struggled to focus on the ball. When her teammates passed her the ball, she would become still. She is an extremely skilled player and has won several matches in college. Her anxiety affected her performance that day.

Answer 2- Our level of arousal can either positively or negatively affect our performance. The following techniques can be used to increase the arousal-

i) Intense breathing- Intensifying one's breath can substantially increase the arousal. Numerous hard exhales can awaken the body and mind, and increase the level of intensity.

ii) Music- Studies show that listening to upbeat music like hip-hop, rock, etc, can psyche one up and increase the level of intensity. High-energy music can drastically increase the excitement and energy.

iii) Pep-talk- Our self-doubt can often affect our performance. Having a high-energy pep talk can boost confidence and energy levels significantly. Affirming things like "You got this", "You can do it", etc, can increase the level of arousal considerably.

Extremely heightened levels of arousal can often manifest into anxiety. The following techniques can be used to decrease arousal-

i) Deep breathing- Deep inhales help relax the body and mind, and reduce the intensity. It can also relieve anxious thoughts and stress.

ii) Music- Listening to relaxing music can have a profound effect on the level of arousal. It can soothe any nervousness and distract the mind from chaotic thoughts.

iii) Low-energy body language- Maintaining a calm, relaxed body language can increase relaxation and decrease arousal significantly. Sitting comfortably or laying down can help reduce stiffness and built-up stress in the body.

Answer 3-

Anxiety has affected my performance in the past. Before tournaments, I usually have anxiety attacks that gravely affect my performance on-field. I am unable to make rational decisions or even function properly. Once, I had such bad anxiety that I just went blank mid-match. I was extremely disoriented, and all I could hear was my heart racing. I found myself struggling to pass the ball, and focus on the goal.