Exploring the interaction of executive function and language processing in adult cognitivecommunication disorders

Abstract

Purpose: The neural basis of language processing partially overlaps with executive system processing mediated by a network of frontal, parietal, and subcortical areas of the brain, thereby suggesting the significant interaction of executive functioning on linguistic abilities. It is critical that speech language pathologists understand the nature of executive function (EF) and their relationship with respect to speech and language. The purpose of this paper is to analyze the literature and evaluate the role of EF on language processing and deficits in communication disorders. Methods: The following paper is a comprehensive literature review of the existing evidence regarding the influence of EF on language processing in adult neurogenic cognitive-communication disordered populations. The review includes relevant research studies from participants of all age groups and severities published in the last three decades. Results: Research evidence with relevance to major adult neurogenic cognitive-communication disorders including Aphasia, Traumatic Brain Injury, Right Hemisphere Damage, and Parkinson's Disease are discussed. The paper addresses how the impact may vary with respect to the different components of language (semantics versus discourse pragmatics), different modalities of language (production versus comprehension), as well as complexities of language tasks. Several research studies provide support for the influence of different EF processes such as switching, shifting, inhibition, sequencing, working memory, and processing speed, on language processing in these clinical population. Conclusions: Through the information presented here, professionals, both clinicians and researchers in the field of communication sciences and disorders can gain a thorough knowledge of the interaction of language and executive functioning and a prospect to develop an integrative framework for assessment and intervention of cognitive-communication disorders.