GCSEPhysical EducationAQARevision NotesSports PsychologyMental Preparation for PerformanceDefinition of Arousal

Definition of Arousal (AQA GCSE Physical Education (PE))

Revision Note

Cara Head

Written by: Cara Head

Reviewed by: Lára Marie McIvor

Definition of Arousal

  • Arousal is defined as:

A physical and mental state of excitement

  • The state of arousal can vary along a continuum from deep sleep (low arousal) to intense excitement (high arousal)

  • Arousal can affect the physical performance of a sportsperson and their mental state

    • Mental state includes both physiological and psychological factors of a person

    • Physical effects of high arousal include increased heart rate and sweating

    • Arousal levels need to be controlled to ensure performance is not affected adversely

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    Cara Head

    Author: Cara Head

    Expertise: Biology Content Creator

    Cara graduated from the University of Exeter in 2005 with a degree in Biological Sciences. She has fifteen years of experience teaching the Sciences at KS3 to KS5, and Psychology at A-Level. Cara has taught in a range of secondary schools across the South West of England before joining the team at SME. Cara is passionate about Biology and creating resources that bring the subject alive and deepen students' understanding

    Lára Marie McIvor

    Author: Lára Marie McIvor

    Expertise: Biology Lead

    Lára graduated from Oxford University in Biological Sciences and has now been a science tutor working in the UK for several years. Lára has a particular interest in the area of infectious disease and epidemiology, and enjoys creating original educational materials that develop confidence and facilitate learning.