Executive Functions
Executive functions are the mental processes that enable planning, focus, memory, and multitasking—essentially the brain's command center for managing thoughts and actions.
The core executive functions
While researchers debate exact categorization, most identify these primary executive functions that work together to enable goal-directed behavior.
Primary executive functions: • Working memory: Holding information while using it • Inhibitory control: Resisting impulses and distractions • Cognitive flexibility: Switching between tasks or perspectives • Planning: Creating and following multi-step plans • Organization: Structuring information and materials • Self-monitoring: Awareness of performance and behavior
These functions develop at different rates throughout adolescence.
You're not alone
If different aspects of your teen's functioning seem randomly strong or weak, you're seeing the uneven development of executive functions. Many parents don't realize these are separate but interconnected skills. A teen might have excellent planning but poor working memory, creating puzzling performance patterns. Understanding individual executive function profiles helps target support effectively.
What it looks like day to day
Student
Your teen brilliantly plans a project (strong planning) but forgets materials needed (weak working memory), showing mixed executive function development.
Parent
You notice your teen can focus intensely on interests (strong sustained attention) but can't switch tasks easily (weak cognitive flexibility).
Tiny steps to try
Support individual executive functions based on specific challenges.
- 1
Function mapping
Identify which executive functions are strong versus challenging. Target support accordingly.
- 2
Strength compensation
Use strong functions to support weak ones. Good planning can compensate for poor memory through detailed lists.
- 3
Function-specific practice
Working memory games, flexibility challenges, or inhibition exercises targeting specific functions.
- 4
Environmental supports
Different functions need different accommodations. [Timers for time management](/the-parent-bit/finding-order-in-the-chaos-setting-up-calendars-for-kids), labels for organization.
- 5
Integrated practice
Real-world tasks require multiple functions. Cooking uses planning, working memory, and cognitive flexibility simultaneously.
Why executive functions matter
Adele Diamond's research demonstrates that executive functions predict school readiness and academic achievement more strongly than IQ. These functions affect every aspect of life from relationships to career success.
The prefrontal cortex, primarily responsible for executive functions, is among the last brain regions to mature. This protracted development explains why teens can seem capable one moment and helpless the next—different situations demand different executive functions at varying developmental stages.
Diamond (2013) identifies executive functions as critical for mental and physical health, success in school and life, and cognitive, social, and psychological development. Best and Miller (2010) found that executive functions show protracted development through adolescence, with different components maturing at different rates.
References
Best, J. R., & Miller, P. H. (2010). A developmental perspective on executive function. Child Development, 81(6), 1641-1660.
Diamond, A. (2013). Executive functions. Annual Review of Psychology, 64, 135-168.
Ready to help your teen thrive?
Get personalized 1-on-1 coaching to build better habits and boost grades. Join 10,000+ families who trust Coachbit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you strengthen specific executive functions?
Yes, executive functions respond to targeted practice like muscles. Working memory improves through exercises like n-back tasks. Cognitive flexibility develops through novel experiences and perspective-taking. However, improvement requires consistent practice over time, not quick fixes. Think skill-building, not sudden transformation.
Why do executive functions seem worse during stress?
Stress hormones directly impair prefrontal cortex function, weakening executive functions. This is why your organized teen becomes scattered during finals. Stress also depletes the mental energy executive functions require. Managing stress protects executive function capacity. This biological response, not laziness, explains stress-related performance drops.
Related Terms
Cognitive Flexibility
Cognitive flexibility is your teen's ability to switch mental gears, adapt to changes, and see situations from different perspectives without getting stuck.
Planning
Planning is the ability to create structured approaches for achieving goals by breaking them into steps, estimating time, and sequencing actions effectively.
Self-Monitoring
Self-monitoring is observing and tracking your own behaviors, thoughts, and progress to increase awareness and guide improvement.
Working Memory
Working memory is your teen's mental sticky note that holds information just long enough to use it, like remembering instructions while doing homework or keeping track of their place in a conversation.
Related Articles
3 Ways an Executive Functioning Coach Can Help Your Child
Discover why executive functioning skills are crucial for your child's success. Learn how an executive functioning coach can make a difference
Read article
Finding Order in the Chaos – Setting up Calendars for Kids
Creating a calendar and daily schedule for kids can be beneficial to manage school, homework, extracurriculars and hobbies. Color-coding and time-blocking are helpful tools for kids with ADHD.
Read article
