Associations Between Task Performance and Self-Report Measures of Cognitive Control: Shared Versus Distinct Abilities
Hannah R Snyder1, Naomi P Friedman2, Benjamin L Hankin3
1Brandeis University, Waltham, MA, USA.
Assessment
|October 21, 2020
Summary
Executive function (EF) tasks and questionnaires measuring EF/effortful control (EC) show weak correlations in youth. These distinct measures offer complementary insights into cognitive control, with stronger links appearing in older adolescents.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Psychology
- Developmental Neuroscience
- Behavioral Genetics
Background:
- Executive functions (EF) and effortful control (EC) are crucial for adaptive behavior.
- Previous research shows weak correlations between EF task performance and EF/EC questionnaires.
- Methodological limitations may explain these discrepancies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between EF task performance and self-reported EF/EC in a youth sample.
- To address methodological limitations of prior studies using a latent variable approach.
- To determine if EF tasks and questionnaires represent distinct or overlapping constructs.
Main Methods:
- A community youth sample (N=291, ages 13-22) participated.
- EF task performance was measured using inhibition, shifting, and updating tasks.
- Self-reported EF/EC was assessed via the EATQ-R and BRIEF-SR questionnaires.
- Bifactor models were employed to analyze the latent structure of the data.
Main Results:
- Bifactor models demonstrated good fit for all measures.
- Weak average correlations were found between self-reported EF/EC and EF task factors in youth.
- Stronger associations emerged between these measures in older adolescents.
Conclusions:
- Task-based EF measures and self-report EF/EC measures are largely distinct.
- These measures provide complementary perspectives on cognitive control.
- Age may influence the convergence of EF task performance and self-report.
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