Cultural Contributions to Childhood Executive Function

Although the early environment influences executive function ( EF ), the role of culture is rarely incorporated into models of EF development. We conducted an integrative review of research examining childhood EF across diverse cultural groups and cultural processes, focusing on studies that assessed “cool” EF domains (working memory, inhibitory control, and cognitive flexibility) using established cognitive tasks. Eighteen studies met inclusion criteria. Existing research has primarily compared group differences rather than investigating mechanisms underlying cultural influences on EF . Findings suggest that cultural values, parenting practices, language, education, and experiences of inequality may contribute to EF development and should be examined more directly. We discuss methodological considerations for culturally informed research and highlight opportunities to integrate culture into EF interventions. Recognizing the importance of culture in EF research can strengthen developmental science and support interventions that promote healthy development in ways that are responsive to children’s diverse cultural contexts.

Child development · childhood · Cognitive flexibility · Cultural Influence · Cultural values · Educational inequality · Executive function · Inhibitory control · Language · parenting practices · Working memory · Child and Animal Learning Development · Developmental and Educational Neuropsychology · Early Childhood Education and Development