1.Analysis of the characteristics and related factors of executive function in adolescents
LI Wan, YIN Xiaojian, MA Yuanyuan, WANG Jinxian, WU Huipan, SHI Lijuan, ZHANG Yingkun, LI Yong
Chinese Journal of School Health 2024;45(5):693-699
Objective:
To explore the characteristics and related factors of adolescent executive function, so as to provide theoretical basis for promoting the development of adolescent executive function.
Methods:
A total of 5 018 adolescents aged 13-18 from Shanghai, Suzhou, Taiyuan, Wuyuan, Xingyi and Urumqi were selected by convenient cluster random sampling method from September to December 2022, and their basic information, family status, lifestyle behavior, physical fitness and executive function were investigated by questionnaire survey. Considering the heterogeneity between schools, a multilevel Logistic model was established to analyze the related factors of adolescent executive function.
Results:
The inhibitory function of high school students was better than that of middle school students (Z=-2.69). In terms of refreshment function, high school students were superior than middle school students (1-back:Z=-11.32; 2-back:Z=-11.36), and male students were superior than female students (2-back:Z=-2.18); in terms of shifting function, high school students were superior than middle school students (Z=-2.63), and boys were superior than girls (Z=-7.10)(P<0.05). The results of multilevel model analysis showed that the executive function of adolescents was clustered at the school level. At the individual level, junior high school refreshment function (1-back:β=56.94; 2-back:β=127.00), and shifting function (β=35.64) were worse than that of high school students; the refreshment function 2-back (β=-21.24) and shifting function (β=-28.42) of male students were better than those of female students; the refreshment function 2-back of nononly child was better than that of only child (β=-19.36); refreshment function of low fitness was worse than that of high fitness (β=37.35); the shifting function of the video screen time not up to standard was better than that of the standard (β=-14.30)(P<0.05).
Conclusions
The executive function of high school students is better than that of middle school students, the refreshment function and shifting function of boys are better than that of girls. Family environment, lifestyle and physical health are significant factors related to executive function of Chinese adolescents. By raising awareness of the major supporting and impeding factors for executive functioning in adolescents, it can help to develop effective intervention programs for adolescents.