Selected Factors Related to Executive Function of Preschool Children
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Abstract
Executive function skills represent advanced cognitive processes in the prefrontal cortex, responsible for managing thoughts, regulating emotions, and controlling behaviors. These skills are essential for individuals to accomplish their life objectives. Low executive function may negatively impact development, learning, and mental health problems later in life. This study aimed to examine the executive function skills of preschool children and the selected factors related to these skills. A total of 87 participants were selected using simple random sampling. Preschool children, aged 2-5 years, were selected through purposive sampling from child development centers. Data was collected through developmental evaluations, behavior observation, and parent interviews. The research instruments employed included 1) a questionnaire on the demographic information of the children and their parents, 2) assessment of growth according to the Kotchakorn Version 2, 3) the Developmental Surveillance and Promotion Manual (DSPM), and 4) the Executive Function Assessment in Early Childhood. The data were analyzed using Spearman's Rank Correlation Coefficient and the Mann-Whitney U test. Study results: The average age of preschool children was 3.21 years, exhibiting executive function skills at a high level ( = 56.98, SD =10.07). Factors positively associated with executive function skills included language comprehension development (Z =-2.314, p-value <0.05) and height-for-age (r = 0.266, p-value < 0.05). Consequently, the findings from this research should be utilized to promote development in language comprehension and nutrition, which affect cognitive skills related to executive function.
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