Understanding contextual variations in executive function through habits, representations, and reflection

Abstract

Executive function (EF) is often considered a domain-general ability or set of component processes related to conscious control best assessed in decontextualized controlled settings. However, recent calls have advocated for more consideration of the role that context may play in EF's conceptualization and assessment. Reconciling these two approaches presents a challenge. This paper explores the possibility of considering EF in terms of its function— achieving a goal. From this view, the function of EF can be achieved through multiple pathways and thus is best measured across multiple contexts that have a shared goal of resisting a prepotent response that conflicts with a correct goal-driven response. Examination of EF across multiple contexts should reveal individual differences in the conscious regulation of thought and behavior toward the outcome of a goal across multiple tasks. We explore a social representational framework for exploring the cognition that underlies the variability in conscious goal-directed thought and behavior. This framework suggests that representational skills related to forming, maintaining, and reflecting on goal-relevant information are at the center of EF and necessary for overriding habitual prepotent responses. Finally, because representational ability and habits are developed within and shaped by a sociocultural context (e.g., through language, communication, values, and beliefs), contextual differences are key to understanding how individual differences in the regulation of behavior emerges and how context may shape EF demands.