Home executive function environment and executive functions in children: The mediating role of brain electrical activity

Abstract

The effect of environmental conditions on children’s brain function is of paramount importance. The goal of this study was to examine the role of home environment on executive function (EF) in 6–12-year-old children through the mediating role of alpha, beta, and theta brain waves. Parents of 133 children filled out the Barkley Deficits in Executive Functioning Scale (BDEFS) and Home Executive Function Environment (HEFE). Children’s brain waves were also assessed. Data were analyzed using correlation and path analysis. The results suggested that there is a positive and significant relationship with mediating role of alpha and beta brain waves, between HEFE and BDEFS. Findings of this study supported the idea that environmental factors such as HEFE affect the function of brain waves and thus the daily EF of children. As a result, modifying home environment based on the executive functioning needs of children is recommended to parents.