Interdisciplinary assessment strategies for capturing the elusive executive.

Abstract

Executive theory states that the executive functions are activated selectively based on the subjective perception that the immediate task is too difficult to handle through behavioral habits and too important to risk failure. Consequently, tests intended to assess the executive functions can serve their intended purpose only when they are so perceived. Because individual differences in motivation and attitudes are extensive, no single test can be presumed to measure executive function for all subjects. Executive assessment should use a variety of diverse measurement procedures to define a range of functioning. The transdisciplinary team possesses powerful advantages in conducting a diversified assessment of this kind.