Age-differences in network models of self-regulation and executive control functions

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Cognitive Science
• Neuroscience

Background:

• Self-regulation (SR) and executive functions (EF) are crucial for managing behavior, thoughts, and emotions.
• SR and EF research often uses different methods (self-reports vs. performance tasks), leading to challenges in correlating findings.
• Theoretical overlap exists, but empirical links between SR and EF measures are not always clear.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically investigate the connections and overlap between various facets of SR and EF.
• To enhance the conceptual understanding of SR and EF constructs.
• To compare network models across different age groups (youth, middle-aged, older adults).

Main Methods:

• A life-span sample (ages 14-82) completed diverse self-report measures and performance-based tasks.
• Measures assessed multiple aspects of SR (e.g., sensation seeking, mindfulness, grit) and EF (working memory, inhibition, shifting).
• Network models were constructed and compared across age cohorts.

Main Results:

• Connections were generally stronger within SR and EF clusters than between them.
• Older adults exhibited more interconnections between SR and EF compared to younger individuals.
• Key variables bridging SR and EF were identified within the network models.

Conclusions:

• SR and EF represent partially distinct, yet interconnected, psychological constructs.
• Age-related cognitive changes may influence the interplay between self-regulation and executive functions.
• The findings contribute to a more nuanced understanding of how these domains interact across the lifespan.