A comparison between the effect of success oriented and failure oriented cognitions on motor performance

Abstract

The purpose of the present study was to compare the effect of success oriented versus failure oriented mental preparation strategies on an arm strength task. The study was conducted in a manner such that the theoretical basis for the psych-up effect could be examined. The sample (N = 20) consisted of extramural/club sport level, male, athletes, a heretofore untapped population. Subjects were instructed to prepare using a combination of imagery and self-efficacy statements, methods suggested in the literature as effective for altering self-efficacy expectations. The success condition stressed success and competence, and the failure condition stressed failure and incompetence. The subjects, all volunteers, were recruited by the investigator. Subjects engaged in two trials of an isometric arm strength task under each of the two mental preparation conditions. Performance was assessed via an isometric arm flexion device which measured force applied to a load cell. Resultant data were subjected to a one-way analysis of variance with repeated measures. Results of the study indicated there was a significant difference (p < .05) between the two conditions. Three conclusions were drawn. It appears that preparing mentally by stressing success and competence, and preparing mentally by stressing failure and incompetence results in differential strength performance. Additionally, direct alteration of self-efficacy expectations resulted in quantitatively distinct strength performance. Lastly, the psych-up effect was extended to a new, and important, population. Recommendations for future research included replicating the present study with the addition of a control condition, investigating each of the five identified psych-up strategies in a positive versus a negative manner, exploring additional combinations of strategies, assessing the levels of self-efficacy and arousal in studies similar to the present investigation, and extending research efforts in the direction of younger subjects.