Journal of Individual Differences · 2009 · 125 citations · 24 references
Neuropsychological FunctioningCognitive ScienceNeuropsychologyPsychopathologyPsychiatryPersonality PsychologyMedicineIndividual DifferencesHuman-like IntelligenceExecutive StudiesCognitionAbnormal PersonalitySocial SciencesExecutive FunctionCognitive NeurosciencePsychologyVigilance EfsFluid Intelligence
Executive functions are crucial for goal‑directed behavior and are linked to intelligence. The study examined how executive functions relate to normal and abnormal personality traits. The authors modeled working memory, fluency, response inhibition, and vigilance as latent variables and assessed them alongside fluid intelligence. EFs were distinct yet correlated and each related to fluid intelligence, while normal and abnormal personality traits showed differential associations with EFs and gF, indicating systematic links that call for a more unified individual‑difference framework.
Executive functions (EFs) are important for goal-directed behavior and have been linked with a number of important constructs like intelligence. The current study examined the link between EFs and aspects of normal and abnormal personality. Latent variables of working memory, fluency, response inhibition, and vigilance EFs were examined along with fluid intelligence (gF). It was found that the EFs were separate yet correlated, and that each was related to gF. Furthermore, it was found that aspects of personality as measured by the Five-Factor Model and the BIS/BAS were differentially related to the EFs and gF. Examination of personality disorder measures also demonstrated differential relationships with the EFs and gF. The results suggest a number of systematic and important links between EFs and personality and suggest the need for a more unified field of individual differences.
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