title: Spatial memory and executive functions in children.
abstract: A computerized hidden pathway maze-learning task was used to examine the development of spatial memory and executive functions in 6- to 9-year-olds. Pathway length was manipulated to investigate the impact of increases in maze matrix size on these abilities. Analysis showed that maze matrix size (and ipso facto pathway length) and age interacted to affect executive functions but not spatial memory. Executive errors differed as a function of age on the most difficult maze. Results are discussed in terms of factors affecting the development of executive functions and spatial memory.
authors.affiliation: University of Melbourne, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Science, Psychological Sciences, Parkville, Melbourne, Australia. elizabethlibby@gmail.com
authors.forename: Elizabeth
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Thomas
authors.forename: Robert
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Reeve
authors.forename: Amy
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Fredrickson
authors.forename: Paul
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Maruff
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000367:Age Factors; D001315:Australia; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D056344:Executive Function / Q000502:physiology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D018782:Maze Learning / Q000502:physiology*; D008570:Memory, Short-Term / Q000502:physiology*; D013028:Space Perception / Q000502:physiology; D013037:Spatial Behavior / Q000502:physiology*; D013647:Task Performance and Analysis