TFCC: 008 The Executive Functioning formula; what is EF?

Hello *|FNAME|*,

Welcome to The Functional Cognition Chronicles issue 008.

As always, if you would like to catch up on previous issues head to the TFCC blog.

Today, we’re having an overview of executive function (EF). EF is a foundational aspect of functional cognition that impacts our ability to manage tasks, stay organised, and work toward our goals.

What is Executive Function?

At its core, executive function is a set of mental skills that include working memory, flexible thinking, and self-control. It’s like our brain’s internal manager, guiding us through daily tasks and helping us respond effectively to challenges. From remembering to pay bills on time to adapting our plans when things change, executive function plays a role in almost everything we do.

I recently attended a Professional Development which highlighted the Core functions of Executive Functioning as:

1. Working Memory

   This skill allows us to hold and work with information in real-time. Think of it as keeping track of multiple ingredients while cooking a complex recipe. Strong working memory supports learning, comprehension, and following through with multi-step tasks.

2. Inhibitory Control (or Self-Control)

   Inhibitory control is our ability to regulate impulses and stay focused, even in the face of distractions. It’s what keeps us from picking up our phone during a meeting or choosing a healthier snack when tempted. Inhibitory control allows us to prioritise long-term goals over immediate urges.

3. Cognitive Flexibility

   This skill enables us to adapt and shift our approach when circumstances change. Such as adjusting to a last minute change in plan, or not having enough ingredients, cognitive flexibility helps us manage life’s inevitable surprises.

These three aspects play a critical role with in the typical definition of executive function which are often described as ability to:

• Organise

• Problem solve

• Plan

• Make decisions

These tasks require the functions of working memory, inhibitory control and cognitive flexibility to be achieved. Without working memory, you will be unable to review all potential options in your mind when thinking about what you can make for dinner from only using fridge/pantry items. Without cognitive flexibility you won’t be able to decide on what to cook when you drop your eggs for your quiche you were making for dinner and without inhibition you will be unable to stay on task when preparing your dinner.

I really like to review EF through the Model of Frontal lobe functioning (Stuss, 2011) suggests the following pathways

1. Energisation / doing domain – how do I kick the soccer ball in to the goal?

2. Executive cognition / thinking domain – how do I get to chemist, grocery shop & bakery this afternoon in the most direct way?

3. Emotional & behavioural self-regulation / feeling & acting domain – how do I respond to my feeling of frustration after someone hit my car in the parking lot?

4. Meta cognition / awareness / socialising domain – how do I respond to this person who hit my car door and is clearly getting frustrated?

Executive functioning is a huge set of functions and skills and has a significant impact on a person’s capacity to engage in daily occupations, and can introduce a significant performance and participation barrier.