Executive functions

Executive functions are a set of cognitive processes that are necessary for the cognitive control of behavior. These processes include attentional control, cognitive inhibition, inhibitory control, working memory, and cognitive flexibility. Executive functions also include reasoning, problem solving, and planning.

Overview

Executive functions are crucial for successful adaptation and performance in real-life situations. They allow people to initiate and complete tasks and to persevere in the face of challenges. While people with executive functioning issues are not necessarily less intelligent, they might struggle with things like planning, organization, getting started (task initiation), and task completion.

Components of Executive Functions

Executive functions can be divided into two groups:

Attentional Control

Attentional control refers to an individual's capacity to choose what they pay attention to and what they ignore. It is also known as selective attention.

Cognitive Inhibition

Cognitive inhibition is the mind's ability to tune out stimuli that are irrelevant to the task/process at hand or to the mind's current state.

Inhibitory Control

Inhibitory control, cognitive inhibition and interference control is an important part of executive functions. It is a cognitive process that permits an individual to inhibit their impulses and natural, habitual, or dominant behavioral responses to stimuli.

Working Memory

Working memory is a cognitive system with a limited capacity that can hold information temporarily. Working memory is important for reasoning and the guidance of decision-making and behavior.

Cognitive Flexibility

Cognitive flexibility is the mental ability to switch between thinking about two different concepts, and to think about multiple concepts simultaneously.

Importance of Executive Functions

Executive functions are essential for higher-order thinking, which involves the ability to think abstractly and to plan, start, and complete tasks. They are also crucial for successful adaptation and performance in real-life situations.

See Also

• Cognitive psychology
• Neuropsychology
• Cognitive neuroscience

References

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