The following text discusses cognitive science.
The "flow state," described by psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, occurs when a person becomes completely absorbed in a challenging but achievable activity. In flow, people lose track of time, feel a sense of control, and experience deep satisfaction. Csikszentmihalyi found that flow most often occurs when the difficulty of a task closely matches the person's skill level—too easy and we become bored; too hard and we become anxious. Understanding these conditions has influenced fields from education to workplace design.
According to the text, what conditions produce a flow state?
Very easy tasks that require no effort
Tasks that are somewhat more difficult than one's abilities
Activities that match one's skill level in difficulty
Extremely stressful situations
Correct Answer: C
Choice C is the correct answer. The text states flow occurs "when the difficulty of a task closely matches the person's skill level."
- Evidence: "Difficulty...closely matches...skill level."
- Reasoning: Balance between challenge and ability is required.
- Conclusion: Matching difficulty to skill produces flow.
Choice A is incorrect because "too easy and we become bored." Choice B is incorrect because that would be too hard, causing anxiety. Choice D is incorrect because stress from being overwhelmed prevents flow.