The "To What Extent" Argument (picking a side?) - Psychology Extended Essay

[Millyailene]

Hello all! The research question for my psychology EE is:

1. To what extent does psychological arousal negatively impact athletic performance?

From what I understand, "to what extent" constitutes a more evaluative approach, rather than a thesis. Am I correct in saying this?

Therefore my essay would ultimately evaluate ways in which arousal negatively impacts athletic performance and counters this--how it positively impacts athletic performance.

So, then my "argument" would be that extreme levels of arousal (either too high or too low) negatively impact athletic performance for X reasons, as they both have about the same degree of negative impact, and I might counter this by discussing ways in which arousal is positive for athletic performance (e.g. moderate levels giving motivation and endurance to persist through tasks).

BUT

my mentor has told me to pick a side--either levels that are too high or too low, rather than both, and defend this side as a negative influence on athletic performance ONLY. I'm not sure where the "TWE" command term would fit here. She also says that I should pick a specific subject that might impact arousal, such as expectations of performance, however I have no idea what she means by this, or where that would be in the structure of the essay--a small addition to the argument? The central focus of the argument? I'm not sure.

After all of this my overarching question is: which method do I take? the first, more evaluative method? Is that correct? or should I "pick a side"? Also, does TWE constitute evaluation rather than an argument?

If I am way off, could someone please guide me towards an argument? Thank you so much in advance!

[Guest Sunshine123]

By 'to what extent' I think you have to be prepared to argue both sides of the argument - of course you may* choose to support one side more, but remember to criticize your argument/refute it with other research as well