Psychiatry and Psychology

Executive Function

A set of cognitive functions that controls complex, goal-directed thought and behavior. Executive function involves multiple domains, such as CONCEPT FORMATION, goal management, cognitive flexibility, INHIBITION control, and WORKING MEMORY. Impaired executive function is seen in a range of disorders, e.g., SCHIZOPHRENIA; and ADHD.

National Library of MedicineMedical Subject Headings2026

Structured Summary

Abstract

A set of cognitive functions that controls complex, goal-directed thought and behavior. Executive function involves multiple domains, such as CONCEPT FORMATION, goal management, cognitive flexibility, INHIBITION control, and WORKING MEMORY. Impaired executive function is seen in a range of disorders, e.g., SCHIZOPHRENIA; and ADHD.

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Classification

Broader headings

Related Concepts

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See Also

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Synonyms

5 entry terms
  • Executive Control
  • Executive Controls
  • Executive Functions
  • Function, Executive
  • Functions, Executive

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Aspects Covered

5 allowable subheadings

Indexed with the subheadings classification, drug effects, ethics, physiology, radiation effects.

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History Note

2010

MeSH Record

Previous Indexing

  • Attention (1990-2009)
  • Cognition (1969-2009)
  • Memory (1991-2009)
  • Problem Solving (1990-2009)

MeSH Hierarchy

Tree Number

  1. F02w.463w.217w

AMA Style

References

  1. National Library of Medicine. Executive Function. Medical Subject Headings (MeSH). 2026. Unique ID D056344. http://id.nlm.nih.gov/mesh/2026/D056344
  2. Executive Function. In: Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Executive_functions
  3. Executive Function. In: Wikidata. https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q783092