Attention and Working Memory

Abstract

The ability of attention and working memory are two very important cognitive functions. There is broad agreement that working memory is closely related to attention. There has been a lot of research in the past that tries to explain the relationship between the two. So far it seems that their relationship is closely related as well as very significant, while one affects the other. This article outlines several theoretical options for conceptualizing this link and evaluates the views of the authors coming to the same conclusion. Essentially, the purpose of the literature research is to show the interdependence of the two fundamental cognitive functions through mechanisms or daily processes - which require working memory and attention – as well as through neurodevelopmental disorders or diseases. In some of the articles listed, the working memory and attention have been divided into components that help to see the relationship between them too.