Exploring the Relations between Executive Functions and Personality

Abstract

Recent academic attention in the neuropsychological groundwork of main personality factors, along with the recognition of both personality and executive functioning (EF) as major predictors of memory related problems, suggest the requirement of examining personality-EF connections. The main intend of this study was to probe into the associations between personality traits and executive functioning (i.e. Motivational Drive, Strategic Planning, Organization, Impulse Control, and Empathy). To fulfill the purpose of the study a sample consisting of approximately 50 graduate students were taken from Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak by using incidental sampling technique. The age range of the sample varied from 20 to 30 years. The participants were administered Executive Function Index (EFI) and NEO-FFI. The data was analyzed by using appropriate statistical analysis in order to delineate the relation between the variables under study. There are found positive significant associations on extraversion, openness and conscientiousness with executive functions. Neuroticism is found to be negatively correlated with executive functions. A notable contribution of Conscientiousness to executive functions among students is observed.