Executive Functions: What They Are, How They Work, and Why They Evolved

This groundbreaking book offers a comprehensive theory of executive functioning (EF) with important clinical implications.

Synthesising cutting-edge neuropsychological and evolutionary research, Russell A. Barkley presents a model of EF that is rooted in meaningful activities of daily life. He describes how abilities such as emotion regulation, self-motivation, planning, and working memory enable people to pursue both personal and collective goals that are critical to survival. Key stages of EF development are identified and the far-reaching individual and social costs of EF deficits detailed. Barkley also explains specific ways that his model may support much-needed advances in assessment and treatment.

This outstanding book will be helpful to a wide range of professionals, including: clinical psychologists, neuropsychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and forensic psychologists working with children, adolescents, and adults; school psychologists and special educators; psychopathology researchers.

New in paperback - the hardcover version of this book was published in 2012.

Table of Contents

1. Problems with the Concept of Executive Functioning
2. The Extended Phenotype: A Foundation for Modeling Executive Functioning
3. Executive Functioning as an Extended Phenotype
4. The InstrumentalÐSelf-Directed Level
5. The MethodicalÐSelf-Reliant Level
6. The TacticalÐReciprocal Level
7. The StrategicÐCooperative Level
8. The Extended Utilitarian Zone
9. Implications for Understanding Executive Functioning and Its Disorders
10. Implications for the Assessment and Clinical Management of Deficits in Executive Functioning