CSC Sports Psychology and Motivation

Question 1

What is the inverted-U hypothesis (Yerkes-Dodson law) in sports performance?

Accepted Answer

Performance improves as arousal increases up to an optimal point, then declines with excess arousal

Answer

More arousal always produces better performance

Answer

Arousal has no effect on athletic performance

Answer

Lower arousal always produces better performance

Question 2

Which psychological skill involves mentally rehearsing a skill or performance before physically executing it?

Accepted Answer

Imagery (mental rehearsal/visualization)

Answer

Progressive muscle relaxation

Answer

Biofeedback

Answer

Cognitive restructuring

Question 3

What type of motivation comes from internal satisfaction, curiosity, and the inherent enjoyment of an activity?

Accepted Answer

Intrinsic motivation

Answer

Extrinsic motivation

Answer

Identified regulation

Answer

External regulation

Question 4

Goal-setting theory (Locke & Latham) suggests goals are most effective when they are:

Accepted Answer

Specific and challenging (but achievable)

Answer

Vague and flexible

Answer

Only outcome-based

Answer

Set by coaches without athlete input

Question 5

What is 'choking under pressure' primarily attributed to in sport psychology?

Accepted Answer

Increased self-monitoring and conscious interference with automated motor skills

Answer

Lack of physical conditioning

Answer

Too little arousal before competition

Answer

Overconfidence

Question 6

Which of the following best describes 'self-efficacy' in athletic performance?

Accepted Answer

An athlete's belief in their ability to execute a specific task or performance

Answer

An athlete's overall self-esteem

Answer

An athlete's trait anxiety level

Answer

An athlete's motivation style