Executive Functioning Tip Sheet
Executive functions are high-level cognitive skills that allow a person to create plans, organize, solve problems, make decisions, complete tasks, and reflect. Executive functions could be thought of as the cognitive director or coach since they assist in the interaction between other cognitive processes, such as memory, attention, and perception.
For example, if the executive functioning acts as the coach, the different cognitive skills act like the team members. So, in this example:
- Memory – linebacker
- Sensory perceptual – running back
- Language – center
- Academic skills – tight end
- Motor skills – tackle
- Visuospatial skills – kicker
As a result, the coach (executive functioning skills) is in charge of and helping all the high-level cognitive skills work together so the team (the person) can win!
Main Aspects of Executive Functioning
- Working Memory. Working memory is what your brain uses to process, use, and remember information. It can play a big role in being able to learn, pay attention to tasks, and complete tasks.
- Cognitive Flexibility. Cognitive flexibility is your brain’s ability to adapt, change, and be flexible. For example, it is used when problem solving, multi-tasking, decision making, and transitioning to a new task.
- Impulse Control. Impulse control is your brain’s ability to control your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. For example, this could mean resisting an urge to shout out an answer and instead think before speaking.
Brain Injury Affects Executive Functioning
When a person has a brain injury, especially to the frontal lobe or prefrontal cortex, they may have resulting difficulties with executive functioning, which is called executive dysfunction.
Executive dysfunction can result in difficulties with:
- Motivation
- Inhibition
- Organization
- Flexible thinking
- Problem solving
- Impulsivity
- Planning
Look for These Difficulties
- Keeping appointments
- Remembering medications
- Paying bills on time
- Remembering grocery list
- Organizing mail