Abstract

Effects of a task complexity system, defined by a match or mismatch between subjects ability and task requirements, and goal setting on performance of a computer-based game were investigated. First trial: undergraduate students played the game under a low, balanced, or high task complexity system condition. The low complexity task system condition was characterized by high ability on the part of the subject coupled with low task demands. The reverse describes the high complexity task system condition. The balanced task complexity system condition matched subjects ability with demands of the task. Second trial: the same students either set performance goals or were to do their best as they played the game. We concluded that balanced task complexity systems elicited active coping with task demands. Goal setting, however, altered the subjects patterns of autonomic and behavioral responses. Across the goal and task complexity system conditions, performance outcomes were consistent with patterns of autonomic response. When parasympathetic withdrawal was accompanied by sympathetic overbalance, performance was lower. Performance was lower: a) in the unbalanced tasks complexity systems when goals were selfset and b) in the balanced systems when do-your-best goals were applied. When parasympathetic dominance was evident, performance was higher. Performance was higher: a) in balanced task complexity systems when goals were self-set and b) in the unbalanced systems when do-you-best goals were applied. Verf.-Referat (gekuerzt)