[Cognitive functions of the frontal lobe]

One way to divide the different regions of the frontal lobe is according to its connections with the thalamic regions. Each of these regions, with their own particular cytoarchitecture, phylogeny and ontogeny, are also involved in distinct cognitive functions. The dorsolateral prefrontal cortex enables plans of action to be developed and executed, and working memory, which is needed for most cognitive processing, is the driving force behind what we call the executive functions. The orbital cortex and its subcortical connections make up a circuit that allows attention to be held and directed through a series of inhibitory mechanisms; this in turn prevents interference by stimuli that are irrelevant for a particular purpose. Finally, the cingulate cortex plays a part in initiating actions, in the intentionality of responses and in focusing attention.

A deeper knowledge of the mechanisms behind the workings of the frontal lobe can explain the clinical pictures that are observed in many of the pathologies that appear during infancy, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.