ABSTRACT
The interest and attention devoted to executive functions has grown steadily in the
last several decades. The concept and definitions of executive functions and their
association with certain disorders such as autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and overall
cognitive, social, emotional, and behavioral functioning are important knowledge areas
for those working in education, health, and mental health-related fields. It is particularly
important for providers to have an understanding of the basic issues related to assessment
and remediation of executive dysfunction. This article briefly addresses the background,
current definitions, research, and some intervention options associated with executive
functions. The intent is to present a foundation for encouraging additional research
on the issues relevant to this important topic.
KEYWORDS
Autism spectrum disorders - executive functions - cognition - remediation
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James A Calhoun
Psychology Dept., University of Vermont, 2 Colchester Ave., Burlington, VT 05405
Email: James.Calhoun@uvm.edu
