From mice to music: a historical critique of optimal arousal in music performance

The theory of “optimal arousal” maintains that an increase in arousal improves performance quality up to a certain point, beyond which any increase in arousal decreases the quality of performance. Within music performance anxiety (MPA) literature, optimal arousal is conceptualized as “anxiety” and is currently an assumed concept, embedded within research study design, treatment, and practice in MPA. However, despite the concept’s assumed nature, its presentation throughout the literature is inconsistent with limited empirical evidence. This narrative review aims to address this gap in the literature via a historical critique of the Yerkes-Dodson law, the major support for optimal arousal in MPA literature. A transdisciplinary approach to synthesizing relevant literature is taken, drawing together literature from various disciplines in order to examine the problematic application of optimal arousal, conceptualized as “anxiety”, to MPA. The presentation of the concept within MPA literature is first examined, noting the inconsistencies and lack of substantial empirical evidence. This is followed by a historical review of the supporting concept, the Yerkes-Dodson law, including an overview of the original study, the concept’s transformation throughout the 20th century, and the concept’s current standing. Synthesising literature from various disciplines, the application of optimal arousal to MPA is then discussed within the context of this historical review. Findings reveal a lack of empirical support and controversial transformation leaving us unsure of the validity of the Yerkes-Dodson law. As a result of this discussion and examination of the Yerkes-Dodson law as applied to music performance, it is proposed that the optimal arousal concept should be used with caution within the field of music psychology unless more comprehensive evidence becomes available. Implications for practice and future research are outlined.

Keywords: Music performance anxiety, optimal arousal, Yerkes-Dodson law, sport psychology, conceptual substitution