Executive Functions and Conceptual Models: A First Look at a Complex Topic: Commentary

Since the late 19th century and over the last decades, executive functions (EF) have received increasing attention in neuropsychology and clinical psychology for their influence on various domains of functioning, activities of daily living, and various psychological and mental disorders.

In this commentary, we aim to describe the major theoretical models of EF, their structures, clinical implications, with a focus on some neurodevelopmental disorders and major neurocognitive disorders.

Two main approaches emerge: unitary models (e.g., Stuss and Benson, Norman and Shallice, Lezak) view EF as an integrated self-regulatory system, while multi-component models (e.g., Miyake, Diamond, Zelazo) describe separable but interconnected processes such as inhibition, working memory, and cognitive flexibility. In individuals with some neurodevelopmental disorders and major neurocognitive disorders, EF may be impaired (while sometimes only some EFs are affected, in other situations, all EFs are negatively influenced).

Contemporary EF theoretical models integrate unitary and multi-component perspectives. They describe EF as coordinated yet distinguishable control processes. Looking at some clinical conditions, such as neurodevelopmental disorders and major neurocognitive disorders, both unitary and multi-component perspectives are supported: in some specific clinical conditions, specific processes and/or modules of EF may be selectively impaired. There is still an open debate on the role of EF as a transdiagnostic feature.

Executive functions represent a fundamental domain for understanding adaptive behaviour across the lifespan. Future research should further clarify the relationships among executive subcomponents, their neural mechanisms, and their role across psychological and neurological disorders, thereby contributing to more refined theoretical models and more targeted clinical assessment and rehabilitation strategies, as well as their role as a transdiagnostic construct.