Work

Behavioral Executive Functions Among Adolescents With Mathematics Difficulties

Year: 2017

Type: article

Abstract: This study investigates behavioral executive functions (EFs) in the mathematics classroom context among adolescents with different mathematics performance levels. The EF problems were assessed by teachers using a behavioral rating inventory. Using cutoff scores on a standardized mathematics assessment, groups with mathematics difficulties (MD; n = 124), low mathematics performance (LA; n = 140), and average or higher scores (AC; n = 355) were identified. Results showed that the MD group had more problems with distractibility, directing attention, shifting attention, initiative, execution of action, planning, and evaluation than the LA group, whereas the differences in hyperactivity, impulsivity, and sustaining attention were not significant. Compared to the AC group, the MD group showed more problems with all behavioral EFs except hyperactivity and impulsivity, while the LA group showed more problems only with shifting attention. Male adolescents showed more behavioral EF problems than female adolescents, but this gender difference was negligible within the MD group. The practical implications of the results are discussed.

Source: Journal of Learning Disabilities

DOI: 10.1177/0022219417720684

Authors: Marja E. Holm, Pirjo Aunio, Piia M. Björn, Liisa Klenberg, Johan Korhonen, Markku S. Hannula

Institutions: University of Helsinki, University of Oslo, University of Eastern Finland, Åbo Akademi University

Language: English

Topic: Developmental and Educational Neuropsychology

Subfield: Neuropsychology and Physiological Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Quality education, Good health and well-being

Open Access status: green

Funder: Suomen Kulttuurirahasto