Table 1.

Executive function in the prefrontal cortex and its effect on behavior, thought and affect

Executive function in the prefrontal cortex Regulates working memory (maintains task relevant information when stimuli are no longer present in the environment) Inhibits inappropriate responses (impulse control) Suppresses distractions (attention) Promotes organization and planning Stimulates purposeful behavior (implementation) Integrates cognition with emotion

Summarized from references 26,37.