Physical Education A-Level
Catastrophe theory
What Catastrophe theory means in Physical Education A-Level, as defined for AQA.
Definition of Catastrophe theory
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Reference: AQA
Claims performance rises with arousal to an optimum, then collapses sharply rather than declining gradually.
Topics that use Catastrophe theory
- Arousal (AQA A-Level)
Related terms
- Linear versus curved arousal–performance relationships
- Optimal arousal as a zone rather than a point
- Sudden collapse versus gradual decline
- Task and individual influences on optimal arousal
- Arousal
- Clear goals and immediate feedback
- Drive theory
- Effortless and automatic execution
Using Catastrophe theory in the exam
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