Final answer:
The optimal arousal level for sinking a putt in golf is moderate, as both too low and too high arousal can negatively impact performance. This aligns with the Yerkes-Dodson law which suggests a bell-shaped curve between arousal and performance.
Step-by-step explanation:
To determine the optimal arousal level for an athlete to perform well, like sinking a putt during a golf tournament, we can refer to the Yerkes-Dodson law. This law proposes that performance increases with physiological or mental arousal, but only up to a point. When levels of arousal become too high, performance decreases. Thus, there needs to be a balance in arousal levels to achieve peak performance.
For activities that require precision and fine motor skills, such as putting in golf, a moderate level of arousal is often most conducive to good performance. Too low arousal can lead to a lack of focus, causing complacency or underperformance. Conversely, too high arousal might result in excessive anxiety or nervousness, leading to mistakes and decreased performance. Therefore, the goal is to maintain a level of arousal that is neither too high nor too low but just right for the task at hand. In the case of a putt in golf, this would likely be a state of calm focus.
While Jose's scenario in the game of pool might be more about concentration and the mental preparation prior to taking a shot, it doesn't directly translate to using mental energy to physically influence the game's outcome. Instead, it reflects the importance of mental focus and finding an optimal arousal level for making a successful shot.