What is Executive Function (EF)?
The brain’s ability to set and accomplish goals.
This includes:
- Problem Solving
- Persistence Managing Emotions
- Managing Impulses
- Focus Motivation/ Not Procrastinating
- Working Memory
- Attention Planning/prioritization
- Using Time Wisely
- Flexibility Thinking Before You Act
- Organization
- Stress Tolerance
Who Doesn’t Have Trouble with Executive Functioning? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zq0oNVb0k58 (9:14) Anne Ginnett
ADHD and Executive Function https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GR1IZJXc6d8 Dr. Russell Barkley
For a more formal definition of executive function:
Executive function is a term that defines the cognitive processes involved in accomplishing goals. Various cognitive processes have been identified though generally they include working memory, flexibility, and inhibition. Russell Barkley, an expert in executive functioning research, identified five processes including self-management to time, self-organization/problem-solving, self-restraint, self-motivation, and self-regulation of emotions. Thomas Brown, another expert on executive functioning, describes executive functioning as the “cognitive management system of the brain.” Executive functioning has been shown to be managed by the prefrontal cortex in the frontal lobe of the brain.