Exploring the Predictive Role of Early Executive Functions and Self-Regulation on Functional Outcome in...

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Developmental Psychology
• Clinical Psychology

Background:

• Executive functions and self-regulation are crucial for learning and adaptation, often impaired in neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs).
• Research linking early executive functions/self-regulation to NDD diagnosis and development is rapidly expanding.
• A synthesis of evidence strength and methodologies is needed to understand this relationship.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and meta-analyze longitudinal studies on early executive functions/self-regulation and NDD symptoms.
• To examine the predictive value of these early functions for later NDD-related impairments.
• To assess methodological variations in studies investigating this association.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review and meta-analysis of 32 longitudinal studies.
• Analysis focused on executive functions and self-regulation in the first 6 years of life.
• Separate meta-analyses for ADHD and ASD diagnoses, measures used, and developmental periods.

Main Results:

• Significant longitudinal association found between early executive/self-regulation difficulties and later attention, socio-communication, and adaptive impairments in NDDs.
• Early difficulties demonstrated predictive value for subsequent NDD symptoms.
• Methodological characteristics of studies were found to influence findings.

Conclusions:

• Early executive and self-regulation challenges are significant predictors of later NDD symptoms.
• Findings have implications for prevention strategies in atypical neurodevelopment, particularly for ADHD and ASD.
• Methodological variability underscores the need for refined research tools and statistical approaches.