A study done by researchers from the University of Western Australia has a lot to offer to those of us who tend to experience the “deer in a headlight” reactions when the pressure is on. Like trying to sink a free throw when the game is on the line. And their results may have implications outside of pressure times in sports events.

Researchers Daniel Gucciardi and James Dimmock tested the effect of pressure on performance among golfers. They took experienced Australian golfers and saw how they reacted to pressure. The pressure manipulation was either putting for the fun of it or putting for money. During both conditions the golfers were instructed to focus on one of three sets of words: 1) words associated with components of their technique such as arms, hips, head; 2) words that were irrelevant such as colors; 3) a single word that summarized a good putt such as smooth.

They found that the only condition where the golfers’ performance decreased was when they were in the high pressure situation and they focused on the words related to the components of the putting action. If they were focused on irrelevant words or on a single holistic word that reflected the end result they actually did better under pressure than without pressure.

So what is the take home message? It seems to be that when we are in situations where we feel pressure, the worst thing we can do is to try and focus on the specific components of what we are trying to do. When we become overly conscious of the individual steps required the overall action becomes excruciatingly difficult.

It is unclear if these findings apply to social situations but it is an interesting point to consider. For example, if someone were to find that they often get nervous and freeze up when they go out on dates, would they be better off if they didn’t think through every step and every action they want to take while on the date? Maybe they would be better off if they were to just keep their mind on the overall result they want from the date, like maybe “smooth.” It may be worth a try.

Further Reading:

Gucciardi, D.F. & Dimmock, J.A. (2008). Choking under pressure in sensorimotor skills: Conscious processing or depleted attentional resources? Psychology of Sport and Exercise, 9, 45-59.