Some people describe executive function as “the management system of the brain.” That’s because the skills involved let us set goals, plan, and get things done. When people struggle with executive function, it impacts them at home, in school, and in life.

Executive functioning refers to a set of cognitive skills that are involved in the higher-level control and regulation of other cognitive processes. These skills enable individuals to plan, organize, prioritize, initiate and sustain tasks, manage time, problem-solve, make decisions, inhibit impulses, and adapt to changing situations. Executive functioning skills help you get things done. These skills are controlled by an area of the brain called the frontal lobe.

Executive function helps you:

  • Manage time
  • Pay attention
  • Switch focus
  • Plan and organize
  • Remember details
  • Avoid saying or doing the wrong thing
  • Do things based on your experience
  • Multitask

When executive function isn’t working as it should, your behavior is less controlled.

This can affect your ability to:

  • Work or go to school
  • Do things independently
  • Maintain relationships

What Causes Executive Function Problems?

Some people are born with weak executive function. People with ADHD, depression, or learning disabilities often have problems with these skills. An injury to the front of the brain can harm your ability to stay on task. Damage from Alzheimer’s disease or strokes may also cause problems.

Some key components of executive functioning include:

  • Working Memory: The ability to hold and manipulate information in mind for short periods of time.
  • Cognitive Flexibility: The capacity to adapt and switch between different tasks or mental sets, and to think flexibly and creatively.
  • Inhibition: The ability to control impulses, inhibit automatic responses, and regulate behavior and emotions.
  • Planning and Organization: The capacity to set goals, develop a plan of action, and organize the steps required to complete tasks.
  • Problem-Solving: The ability to identify problems, generate and evaluate solutions, and select the most appropriate course of action.
  • Time Management: The skill to estimate and allocate time effectively, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines.

Deficits in executive functioning can occur in various conditions, including ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, traumatic brain injury, and certain neurological and psychiatric disorders. Difficulties with executive functions can manifest as challenges with organizing and completing tasks, managing time effectively, maintaining focus and attention, making decisions, and regulating emotions and behavior.

However, it’s important to note that executive functioning is not an all-or-nothing concept. It exists on a continuum, and individuals may have varying strengths and weaknesses in different aspects of executive functioning.

Interventions and strategies aimed at improving executive functioning skills may include cognitive training exercises, environmental modifications, organizational tools, visual supports, and the development of routines and structures. These interventions can help individuals enhance their abilities in planning, organizing, problem-solving, and self-regulation.