2.4.1 Yerkes-Dodson law
In a nutshell, the Yerkes-Dodson law operates in the following manner: when arousal increases from low to moderate levels in an individual, the individual’s performance quality will be greater. If the arousal levels reach a point that is to high, performance quality decreases.
Figure 1: Hebbian’s Version of the Yerkes-Dodson Curve
(Dodson & Yerkes 2014)
Optimum arousal is an adaptive anxiety which facilitates better performance (Lehmann et al. 2007: 147).
2.4.2 The three sources theory
Wilson in Lehmann et al. (2007: 146) puts forth a theory and identifies three sources of MPA and their respective advised treatments. They are as follows (the following is quoted directly as the researcher …show more content…
Location does play a vital role in anxiety response. If we can identify the source of the threat, we can find a remedy for it as well.
2.5 Solutions for Managing MPA
The beauty about the following information with regard to MPA management is that not all have to be employed by the musician, in fact a few or even one, such as the use of medicine, can stop this vicious cycle from continuing (refer to page 2). Their interrelatedness can be severely limited, and this is good news for any performer.
2.5.1 Adequate preparation
Psychologists have coined a term known as deliberate practise (practising with intention and goals in view). The term incorporates three fundamental aspects at its core: (1) Effortful activity, (2) done in isolation, and (3) designed to specifically improve skills. By looking at this, we realise what true practice is or practice proper. It requires hard work and determination. This daunting combo of aspects can turn many musicians away from the idea of deliberate practise (The Collaborative Music Education Series …show more content…
Approximately a quarter of classical musicians use them. The medication impedes the physiological response of adrenaline being in the bloodstream. It gets that name because essentially beta-blockers block the bodies organs’ beta receptors. Research shows that this is an effective treatment for MPA, however there are side effects. The medication can have a negative consequence on a performs expressivity on stage, if it is taken in large doses (Lehmann et al. 2007: 151). The researcher advises to always consult a doctor, for proper dosage instructions, before using