Executive functioning

Executive functioning is the term used to describe the complex intellectual reasoning that results in the ability to successfully perform a range of complex cognitive tasks. The key executive functions include; the ability to think flexibly, to be self aware and able to control one's-self in addition to developing the attention span, reasoning, planning abilities and short-term memory. It results in adolescents being more able to control their behaviour. Executive functioning is largely, but not solely, related to frontal lobe development, so continues to mature in the 16 plus age group.

Developments in executive function extend thinking to trying to make sense of the wider political, cultural, ethical and moral issues in different societies. Developments in executive functioning help the young person to start to understand their role in their own culture and local society, understanding how they fit and how they are expected to behave. These changes can still feel overwhelming for the older adolescent, resulting in them being seen as moody, erratic and idealistic.