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Working memory updating and the development of rule-guided behavior
Dima Amso1, Sara Haas1, Lauren McShane1
1Department of Cognitive, Linguistic, & Psychological Sciences, Brown University, United States.
Cognition
|July 22, 2014
Summary
Children develop abstract rule-guided behavior with age, improving working memory updating. Higher socioeconomic status (SES) also enhances this cognitive skill during development.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Development
- Developmental Psychology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Adolescence involves increased independence and complex demands (family, social, academic).
- Effective management requires abstract rule-guided behavior for navigating diverse situations.
- Cognitive development must support this transition through enhanced executive functions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate age-related changes in abstract rule-guided behavior.
- To examine the role of working memory updating in rule abstraction.
- To assess the influence of socioeconomic status (SES) on cognitive development.
Main Methods:
- Tested participants (children to adults) on a task of increasing rule abstraction.
- Manipulated working memory competition among alternatives.
- Correlated performance with family socioeconomic status (SES).
Main Results:
- Age-related improvements in rule-guided behavior correlate with enhanced rule abstraction.
- Working memory updating appears crucial for developing abstract rule-guided behavior.
- Higher SES is associated with better performance and developmental gains.
Conclusions:
- Cognitive maturation, particularly working memory updating, underpins abstract rule-guided behavior.
- Socioeconomic status is a significant factor influencing cognitive development in this domain.
- A working memory gating framework can explain abstract rule-guided behavior development.
Keywords:
DevelopmentExecutive functionsPolicy abstractionRule-guided behaviorSocioeconomic statusWorking memoryMore Related Videos
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