5.2.10

Evaluate the concept of the psychological refractory period (PRP).

            The period of time during which the response to a second stimulus is significantly slowed because a first stimulus is still being processed.

            The processing of s2 cannot take place until processing of s1 is complete.

Example: tennis

·      S1: player 1 plays a forehand drive towards player 2’s forehand

·      R1: player 2 prepared to return with a forehand drive

·      S2: ball hits net, slow and changed direction

·      R2: player 2 must change shot selection from forehand to backhand

Example: dummy in rugby

·      S1: player 1 shapes to pass the ball

·      R1: player 2 follows the direction of the intended pass

·      S2: the ball has not been passed

·      R2: player 2 must focus attention back on the ball carrier (player 1)