pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

The role of prefrontal cortex in working-memory capacity, executive attention, and general fluid intelligence: an individual-differences perspective - PubMed

Review

The role of prefrontal cortex in working-memory capacity, executive attention, and general fluid intelligence: an individual-differences perspective

Michael J Kane et al. Psychon Bull Rev. 2002 Dec.

Abstract

We provide an "executive-attention" framework for organizing the cognitive neuroscience research on the constructs of working-memory capacity (WMC), general fluid intelligence, and prefrontal cortex (PFC) function. Rather than provide a novel theory of PFC function, we synthesize a wealth of single-cell, brain-imaging, and neuropsychological research through the lens of our theory of normal individual differences in WMC and attention control (Engle, Kane, & Tuholski, 1999; Engle, Tuholski, Laughlin, & Conway, 1999). Our critical review confirms the prevalent view that dorsolateral PFC circuitry is critical to executive-attention functions. Moreover, although the dorsolateral PFC is but one critical structure in a network of anterior and posterior "attention control" areas, it does have a unique executive-attention role in actively maintaining access to stimulus representations and goals in interference-rich contexts. Our review suggests the utility of an executive-attention framework for guiding future research on both PFC function and cognitive control.

PubMed Disclaimer

Similar articles

Cited by

References

    1. Cereb Cortex. 1993 Mar-Apr;3(2):122-32 - PubMed
    1. Exp Brain Res. 1989;76(2):292-306 - PubMed
    1. J Neurosci. 1997 Dec 1;17(23):9285-97 - PubMed
    1. J Exp Psychol. 1958 Apr;55(4):352-8 - PubMed
    1. J Neurosci. 1996 Jan 15;16(2):808-22 - PubMed

Publication types

MeSH terms

LinkOut - more resources