Up Close with the Frontal Lobe - Executive Function Disorder-SOD

Course overview

Executive functioning disorder is prevalent in those with special needs. It is implicit in occupational performance as many health conditions in the pediatric field are commonly associated with impaired executive functioning. The term executive function defines complex cognitive processing requiring the coordination of several sub-processes to achieve a goal. It has been associated with structural and/or functional frontal pathology. Additionally, lower-level processes are regulated by the pre-frontal cortex. Struggles in this area lead to great frustration in all aspects of daily life. As children enter puberty, the frontal cortex begins to mature. It helps with analysis and successful completion of tasks. Knowing how to organize, plan, adjust, and execute tasks decreases many frustrations and resulting behaviors that can occur. As children become older, successful experiences lead to skill development and a system of problem solving. It is for this reason that we entrust teens with increasing freedom and deem them competent in those skills required for more independent living. When a disruption or delay in executive functioning occurs, disorganization, recklessness, or other manifestations of frustration result. If a teen demonstrates difficulties with school projects/assignments, chores, planning long-term projects, using systems for organization, and/or establishing and carrying out long-term goals, he/she may require additional assistance.