Executive Functions and Autism Spectrum Disorder

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary function of inhibition in executive functions?

Resisting distractions and controlling impulses (correct)

Understanding abstract concepts

Adapting to new rules in game scenarios

Holding information for mental tasks

In the context of executive functions, what does shifting refer to?

The ability to remember multiple pieces of information

The capacity to adapt to new perspectives and rules (correct)

Persisting in responses regardless of the situation

The capability to avoid distractions during tasks

What does the Marshmallow test primarily assess in children?

Hot executive functions regarding impulse control (correct)

Memory capacity and retention abilities

Infants' understanding of object permanence

Cool executive functions related to logical reasoning

What characteristic is displayed by infants in the A not B error?

They demonstrate perseverance in reaching for an incorrect location Signup and view all the answers

What is likely the reason behind the A not B error in infants, according to recent research?

Memory retention and action control deficits Signup and view all the answers

What are the three main components of executive functions?

Inhibition, working memory, and attention shifting Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the 'a not b error' in infancy?

Perseveration and an indicator of growing executive functions Signup and view all the answers

What is one significant characteristic of children with Autistic Spectrum Disorders (ASD)?

Impaired executive functions and social cognition Signup and view all the answers

What role do mirror neurons play according to the theories regarding ASD?

They help understand actions and facilitate imitation Signup and view all the answers

Which symptoms are typically associated with children diagnosed with ASD?

Repetitive behaviors and impaired social skills Signup and view all the answers

How do children with ASD typically respond to direct gaze from others?

They show specific impairments in using direct gaze for understanding intentions Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes 'hot' executive function tasks from 'cool' tasks?

Hot tasks involve emotional responses while cool tasks do not Signup and view all the answers

At what age do children typically begin to learn imitation skills?

Around 6 months Signup and view all the answers

What does the ability to imitate indicate in typical child development?

Emerging social skills and learning Signup and view all the answers

Which statement accurately reflects children with ASD's use of emotional expressions in social situations?

They struggle more with emotional cues than their peers Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Executive Functions

Executive functions are abilities enabling voluntary behaviors.
Three core components: inhibition, working memory, and shifting.
Inhibition: Self-control; resisting distractions; stopping/slowing responses.
Working memory: Holding info for use (arguments, math, reading).
Shifting: Mental flexibility; adapting to changed demands.
Marshmallow test: Tests hot executive functions (emotional responses).
Cool executive functions: Not emotionally driven.
Preservation: Persisting with an incorrect response. (A-not-B error in infants).
A-not-B error, a measure of infants' growing executive function abilities, showcases preservation.
Piaget's views on object permanence are questioned because the skill is more linked to executive functions (memory & action control).
Preservation and context both impact development: Contextual factors like search locations and posture influence tasks.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

ASD is characterized by social skill impairments, communication difficulties, and repetitive behaviors.
Impairments: Social cognition, imitation, theory of mind skills.
Children with ASD show executive function deficits like ADHD children.
Typical symptoms: Repetitive behaviors, reduced interest in interactions, impaired social skills, ADHD, anxiety, depression.

Imitation and ASD

Normal development: Imitation develops around 6 months, progresses through childhood.
ASD: Impaired imitation, especially not imitating actions without visible effects.
Mirror neurons: Brain cells active during both observing and performing actions; crucial for understanding others and imitation.
Theory: Mirror neuron dysfunction may cause ASD impairments.
Eye-tracking studies: Children with ASD show:
- Similar abilities using context and emotional expressions.
- Similar ability to understand and process direct gaze and face cues.
- Specific impairments using ONLY gaze direction to understand intentions.
- Some normal abilities but struggle to understand intention from gaze.
Direct eye gaze: Is very difficult for children with ASD.

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Description

This quiz explores the concept of executive functions, focusing on components such as inhibition, working memory, and shifting. Additionally, it examines the relationship between executive functions and Autism Spectrum Disorder, highlighting their significance in behavioral control and cognitive flexibility. Test your understanding of these critical psychological concepts.