Stjórnunarathugun

Stjórnunarathugun is an Icelandic term that translates to executive function in English. Executive functions are a set of cognitive processes that are necessary for the control of behavior, planning, and problem-solving. These functions are typically associated with the prefrontal cortex of the brain.

Key components of executive function include working memory, inhibitory control, and cognitive flexibility. Working memory allows individuals to hold and manipulate information in their minds. Inhibitory control enables them to suppress inappropriate responses and resist distractions. Cognitive flexibility, also known as mental shifting, is the ability to switch between different tasks or mental sets.

Difficulties with executive functions can manifest in various ways, impacting an individual's ability to organize tasks, manage time, regulate emotions, and adapt to new situations. These challenges are often observed in neurodevelopmental conditions such as Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder, as well as in individuals who have sustained brain injuries.

The development of executive functions begins in early childhood and continues throughout adolescence and into early adulthood. Interventions aimed at improving executive functions often involve strategies for planning, organization, self-monitoring, and impulse control. These strategies can be implemented in educational, therapeutic, and everyday settings to support individuals in managing their cognitive and behavioral processes more effectively.