| Abstract: | The capacities for formulating goals, planning, and carrying out plans effectively - the executive functions - are essential for independent, creative, and socially constructive behavior. Although they tend to be vulnerable to brain impairment, they are often overlooked in neuropsychological and neurological examinations. Reasons why there are few formalized examination procedures for evaluating executive functions are suggested. Prefrontal contributions and the importance of other brain areas (e.g., subcortical, right hemisphere) to executive functions are discussed. Assessment techniques are presented for evaluating four categories of executive capacities: (1) goal formulation, (2) planning, (3) carrying out goal-directed plans, and (4) effective performance. The Tinkertoy Test®, which can provide information about these capacities, is described in some detail. Need for further exploration in this area is emphasized. |
