[Models of executive control and functions (I)].
J Tirapu-Ustárroz1, A García-Molina, P Luna-Lario
1Unidad de Rehabilitación Neurológica, Clinica Ubarmin, Fundacion Argibide, 31486 Elcano, España. jtirapuu@cfnavarra.es
Revista De Neurologia
|May 30, 2008
Summary
Executive functions, which enable behavioral control and adaptation, involve complex cognitive processes. No single model fully explains these functions, but they are understood as a combination of interacting cognitive processes.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Neuroscience
- Psychology
Context:
- Executive functions are crucial for adapting to novel situations and regulating behavior.
- The prefrontal cortex is anatomically central to executive functioning.
- Different prefrontal cortex regions may support distinct executive functions.
Purpose:
- To review and clarify prominent models of executive functioning.
- To address the multifaceted and often controversial nature of executive functions.
- To synthesize diverse theoretical perspectives on executive control.
Summary:
- This review examines models including contextual information, structured complex events, working memory, adaptive encoding, Miller and Cohen's integrating theory, and factorial models.
- Current models approach executive functioning from various viewpoints, sometimes omitting aspects of the construct.
- No single model comprehensively explains the control and coordination of cognitive processes during complex tasks.
Impact:
- Highlights the lack of a unified model for executive functions.
- Emphasizes that executive functions comprise multiple interacting cognitive processes.
- Provides a foundation for understanding the complexity of executive control in different situations.
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