Executive Function Disorder
Executive function is how the brain helps us get things done. It allows you to regulate emotions, make plans, organize information, and solve complex problems. Individuals who struggle with executive function disorders can have difficulty with learning in traditional classroom settings as well as keeping up with tasks outside of school. On this page, you can learn more about executive function disorder evaluations and how executive dysfunction can impact your child.
What is Executive Functioning?
Executive functions are a set of capabilities involved in how your brain helps you get work done and stay on track. There are several distinct skills that are under the broad umbrella of executive control functions, as outlined below:
Self-Awareness - ability to understand how behaviors impact others
Inhibition - self-restraint or ability to forego problematic behaviors
Working Memory - ability to mentally manipulate information
Shifting Focus - The ability to shift fluidly between activities, dynamically learning the demands of the new task and adjusting accordingly
Emotional Self-Regulation - the ability to understand and recognize emotions, self-soothe, and otherwise maintain appropriate emotional response
Self-Motivation - ability to find the motivation to complete tasks even when there are no negative external consequences
Planning and Problem Solving - ability to take the information in a given situation and process it to solve problems, plan ahead, and make progress toward completing a task
How Does Executive Function Disorder Impact Kids?
Children who are struggling with executive function disorder may exhibit a range of warning signs, including the following:
Difficulty controlling impulses
Struggling to regulate emotions
Trouble with starting and completing tasks
Difficulty paying attention for extended time periods
Trouble with short-term memory
Struggles with multitasking or prioritizing tasks
Inability to learn from mistakes and make adjustments based on past consequences
Difficulty processing new information
Struggling to solve problems
Is it ADHD or Executive Function Disorder?
Like Non-Verbal Learning Disorders, executive function disorder is not actually recognized as a distinct diagnosis. Instead, it is used to describe a number of conditions that impact a person’s ability to self-manage in a range of areas. Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) refers to a specific diagnosis that involves a range of symptoms that affect your child’s ability to manage tasks, think creatively, pay attention, and problem solve.
How is Executive Dysfunction Diagnosed?
Executive function disorder is not a specific diagnosis. Instead, dysfunction of executive control processes can be indicative of a variety of specific diagnoses, including ADHD. Diagnosis for executive dysfunction involves comprehensive neuropsychological and neurodevelopmental assessments to help us better understand your child’s specific challenges and abilities. We may administer a questionnaires, conduct computer-based or written testing, use evaluation scales, or visit the classroom to observe the child’s behavior.