Help clients understand how stress impacts their performance using insights from the Yerkes-Dodson Law.
Offers theory, guidance, and prompts for mental health professionals. Downloads are in Fillable PDF format where appropriate.
Includes client-friendly guidance. Downloads are in Fillable PDF format where appropriate.
The Yerkes-Dodson Law suggests that performance increases with mental arousal (stress) but only up to a point: when an individuals’ level of stress is too low or too high their performance deteriorates. This handout provides an overview of the Yerkes-Dodson Law. It describes the ways in which excessive effort can be unnecessary and unhelpful when working towards goals. It also introduces the idea of experimenting with one’s ‘zone of optimal performance’ and approaching tasks more flexibly.
Exploring the Yerkes-Dodson Law with clients:
Clients who are excessively striving.
Where perfectionism is often a feature.
Anyone looking to optimize their performance.
Familiarize clients with the Yerkes-Dodson Law.
Help clients to reflect on how much effort they put into tasks.
Encourage clients to experiment with approaching tasks differently.
Monitor the impact these changes have on performance and stress levels.
The Yerkes-Dodson Law states that performance is linked to levels of arousal. Stress can enhance performance up to a certain point; however, when arousal exceeds this level, it often becomes detrimental. This idea has practical applications for clients who struggle with perfectionism or excessive striving. For instance, clients who are perfectionistic might try reducing their effort to discover their optimal performance level.
According to the Yerkes-Dodson Law, people sometimes achieve better results by applying less pressure and effort. This insight can help clients identify and explore their 'zone of optimal performance'.
Therapists benefit from an accessible resource that fosters client insight and encourages behavior change.