Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 10, 2026

Reducing State Anxiety Using Working Memory Maintenance
Published on: July 19, 2017
Effects of performance anxiety on effort and performance in rock climbing: a test of processing efficiency theory
1School of Sport, Health and Exercise Sciences, University of Wales, Bangor, UK. l.hardy@bangor.ac.uk
Abstract:
Three studies examined the effort and performance of rock climbers in the context of processing efficiency theory. Anxiety was manipulated by different means in the three studies. In each study, the effort due only to the physical exertion of climbing was controlled for. Anxiety, effort, and performance were measured via self-report, an integrated heart rate measure, and belayer observation. Consistent with processing efficiency theory, the results showed that higher levels of anxiety were usually associated with higher levels of effort and commensurately higher levels of performance. However, the results also suggested that cognitive anxiety may not be the prime determinant of the effort and performance changes observed. Finally, the results suggested that other individual difference variables may play an important part in determining the extent to which individuals may be able to make use of anxiety-induced effort.
Related Concept Videos
Optimal Arousal Theory
Inverted U-Shaped Performance Curve
The...
Social Loafing
Self-Evaluation Maintenance Model
Sources of Self-Esteem II: Performance Feedback
Self-Presentation: Self-Monitoring and Self-Handicapping
Self-Discrepancy Theory