Assessment of Executive Functions in Children

Abstract

Executive functions (EFs) are a range of goal-directed cognitive abilities. According to one approach, suggested by according to one approach, there are three main EFs; inhibition, shifting, and updating of working memory. EFs are important, in part because of their ability to predict clinical, educational, and functional outcomes. However, EFs have been assessed using a range of cognitive tasks and behavioural rating measures. This chapter will provide an overview of a range of executive function assessments used to assess EFs in childhood, with a focus on inhibition, shifting, and updating of working memory. It will consider the measurement properties of these tools, including data relating to reliability and validity. The measures will then be considered in terms of their suitability for different purposes and in relation to their use with children of different ages and abilities.