Psychology MCAT Practice Exam

According to the Yerkes-Dodson Law, what is essential for optimal performance?

1. Emotional stability

2. Universal emotions

3. Optimal emotional arousal

4. Behavioral expressions

The correct answer is: Optimal emotional arousal

The Yerkes-Dodson Law posits that there is an optimal level of arousal for performance, which often follows a bell-shaped curve. This theory suggests that with low levels of arousal, an individual's performance tends to be less than optimal due to a lack of motivation or engagement. Conversely, with very high levels of arousal, anxiety and stress can hinder performance. Therefore, the key to achieving optimal performance lies in maintaining an appropriate level of emotional arousal that balances motivation and focus. The correct choice underscores the importance of this optimal emotional arousal, which enhances performance without leading to overwhelming anxiety or distraction. In practice, this means that finding a state of arousal that is neither too low nor too high is essential to achieving peak performance, whether in academic tasks, sports, or other activities.