Executive Functioning

Executive Functioning

Deficits in executive functioning, or the ability to do voluntary planned behavior or complex tasks, is broadly seen in both adults and children with ASD. Many researchers believe that executive dysfunction is caused by brain system abnormalities affecting complex information processing. Executive Functioning is thought to have Working Memory and Response Inhibition components.²

Many believe that this may be linked to Gray Matter and White Matter differences seen in those with autism. Postmortem studies show a decreased gray matter to white matter ratio when compared to control subjects. Specific areas which had smaller ratios were lobules VI-VII which are mostly made up of gray matter. However, there were no differences once IQ was controlled for.

Citations

2. O'Hearn K et. al. Neurodevelopment and executive function in autism.Dev Psychopathol. 2008 Fall;20(4):1103-32. PMID 18838033