The influence of executive functions in the mental health of vulnerable adolescents: a multi-site focus and of low- and medium-income countries
| Areas | : | Health and nutrition |
|---|---|---|
| Researcher/s in charge | : | Alan Sanchez |
| Other researchers | : | , Monica Lizama, Sofía Madrid, July Huamán |
| Execution time | : | October 2018 |
Presentation
Executive functions (short-term memory, cognitive flexibility, selective attention, inhibition) are critical for emotional, cognitive and social functioning and interpersonal relationships. Problems in executive functions are strongly linked with mental health issues in high-income countries. However, there is little evidence of this type of relationship in low- and middle-income countries, as well as a few culturally validated tools to measure these aspects.
This study has the following aims:
(a) validate tools that can be used in different countries and in different cultures for the measurement of executive functions and mental health in adolescents;
(b) harmonize existing available data from studies carried out in Kenya, South Africa, Ethiopia and Peru (Young Lives) on these issues;
(c) analyze the relationship between executive functions, risk behaviors, mental health and educational achievement using data from said studies; and,
(d) identify culturally acceptable interventions that can improve the executive functions of adolescents.
