Fractionation of executive functions in adolescents from Iran: invariance across age and socioeconomic status

Abstract Executive functions (EFs) are cognitive skills that regulate thoughts and behavior. The seminal EF unity diversity theoretical framework proposes the existence of three correlated latent domains (inhibition, updating, switching) become distinguishable from a certain moment during adolescence, but it is unclear how age socioeconomic status (SES) affect these abilities. Here, we assessed 407 9-15-year-old Iranians variable SES using an open-access battery executive function tests includes two tasks each domain allows for sociocultural adaptations regarding language stimuli. Various model configurations proposed in literature were tested (one, factor, nested bifactor-S-1 models) confirmatory factor analyses. In addition, to explore unbiased effects SES, performed invariance testing (across SES) multiple indicators causes (MIMIC) best fitting solution. three-correlated had fit was mostly invariant across with all traits improving age, while exerted only minimal positive on shifting updating. We concluded separable domains, found adults adolescents other ages different populations, can already be detected beginning adolescence when culturally psychometrically appropriate used. Additionally, abilities continue improve little affected by suggesting useful study cross-country generality development.