How do I respond to this discussion kindly The theory that makes the most sense to me about arousal/anxiety and performance is known as the zone of optimal functioning theory. I believe this works in conjunction with the inverted U theory also. I understand that a certain base level of arousal will improve performance if it's been practiced in almost all cases and this relationship will lose its integrity the more pressure is applied to the situation. I do believe that people are different and there are high performing athletes as well as their opposite. Some of these athletes will excel and can only reach their potential by an increase in arousal and environment around them while they are performing. The thresholds will differ and the level of arousal Tom Brady might need to perform at his highest level will likely crush most average athletes, leaving them unable to perform even at a level they know they are capable of. The inverted U works because I do think there is a point of over arousal for anyone that will hinder performance if it is reached, performance will suffer. But the conundrum is how close that optimal point of arousal is