3 Signs of Executive Dysfunction in Children with ADHD

Executive function is a set of thinking skills that include working memory, behavioral and emotional control, and set shifting. ADHD can affect executive function in children and teens, making it harder to think through steps in a process, create logical plans, direct attention, and manage feelings. But it doesn’t affect everyone the same way. It’s important to recognize the symptoms of executive dysfunction quickly so you can plan the right interventions for a child with ADHD. 

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1. Executive Function Skills
   • Visual working memory - Seeing the end result of a task 
   • Verbal working memory - Talking yourself through a task 
   • Inhibition control - Changing behaviors and managing emotions
   • Set shifting - Changing focus from one task to another efficiently
2. Working Memory Develops More Slowly in Children With ADHD
   • Increased inattention
   • Difficulty with applied math
   • Organizational challenges
3. Trouble with Emotional Control Is Common in ADHD
   
   • Difficulty recognizing emotional state
   • Emotional dysregulation
   • Acting impulsively when emotional
4. ADHD Shapes Inhibitory Control & Set Shifting
   
   • Slower ability to shift between tasks
   • More errors and omissions when distracted
   • Difficulty following instructions in class

Learn more: Why It’s So Important to Test Executive Function in Children with ADHD