title: Modeling the emergent executive: implications for the structure and development of executive function.
abstract: In this Monograph, Buss and Spencer develop a novel theory of preschool executive function (EF) based on the principles of dynamic systems theory (DST). In this commentary, I discuss how this model contributes to our understanding of EF and highlight challenges that remain to be addressed. First, I discuss Buss and Spencer's model in the context of existing theories, and in terms of the processes thought to underlie developmental improvements in card-sorting. Next, I explore implications for our understanding of the structure of EF in early childhood. Finally, I suggest possible extensions of this approach to later development, including whether and how this work might shed light on relations between individual differences in early EF and later developmental outcomes.
authors.forename: Sandra A
authors.initials: SA
authors.lastname: Wiebe
mesh_terms: D001921:Brain / Q000254:growth & development*; D002652:Child Behavior; D002657:Child Development; D003071:Cognition; D056344:Executive Function; D006801:Humans; D008570:Memory, Short-Term