Executive Functions & Central Executive Network

Executive Functions

Set of cognitive skills that serve cognitive control of behaviour

Core EFs

• Inhibitory control

• Working memory

• Cognitive flexibility

Higher Order EFs

• Problem solving

• Reasoning

• Planning

Inhibitory Control - Breaking the Auto Pilot

Resisting impulsivity, self-control, discipline & perseverance, selective attention

Cognitive Flexibility

• Taking multiple perspectives

• Task switching

• Managing cognitive conflict

• Creativity

• Expanding problem solving options

Measuring Creativity

Torrance Tests asses divergent thinking, flexible thinking, and ideational fluency

EF Intertwine

Working Memory informs content of Inhibitory Control

Inhibitory Control informs capacity of Working Memory

Executive Brain

Frontal Lobe

• Executive functions

• PFC & DLPFC

EF Development

Executive brain (frontal lobe) is plastic and EFs are malleable

Long developmental period = opportunities to practice & shape EFs

EFs and Waves of Plasticity

Predominantly in 2nd wave

Emotions & Cognition

Better regulation of emotions harness emotional information to produce appropriate and beneficial behavioural responses

Supporting Executive Function

• Practice

• Challenging EF key components

• Physical condition

• Positive mood

• Reducing stress

• Build social relatedness and social support