Cognitive Control / Executive Function (EF) Impairment

Cognitive control / executive function (EF) impairment, also called self-regulation deficits can be seen in individuals with autism, ADHD, and other neurodivergent conditions. These deficits include having cognitive problems associated with coordinating tasks, goals, retaining information (working memory), motivation, problem-solving, attention, and judgement, as well as problems with affect regulation—contributing to poor self-control and difficulty with future-directed actions. Research shows:

• Childhood EF predicts academic and occupational functioning, regardless of intelligence and social class. A study following 1,000 children, birth-age 32, showed childhood EF predicted physical health, substance dependence, personal finances, and criminality.
• EF skill-building in children/teens is disrupted by trauma, stress, adversity (poverty, abuse, exposure to violence or discrimination/bullying), especially when prolonged or pronounced.
• Self-regulation can be compromised in children and lead to stressful effects into adulthood. Teens are less effective than peers at planning, controlling attention, regulating emotions.
• Adversity and stress in adultsmakes them less likely to engage in intentional self-regulation, leading to more difficulty with problem-solving and impulse control.