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Journal of Modern Foreign Psychology
2026. Vol. 15, no. 1, 153–161
doi:10.17759/jmfp.2026150114
ISSN: 2304-4977 (online)

The problem of the development of executive functions in modern foreign studies

 
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Abstract

Context and relevance. The article attempts to analyze a number of modern foreign studies that make a significant contribution to understanding the problem of executive function development, a key component of self–regulation, including inhibition, working memory, and cognitive flexibility. Goal. Systematization and discussion of data on what relevant approaches exist to the development of executive functions. Results. There are two areas of research devoted to methods of improving executive function indicators. The first area is related to the study of the effect of cognitive exercises on executive functions. The second direction is related to the influence of motor activity on executive functions. Among other things, the paper presents the results of an analysis of studies considering the possibility of developing executive functions as a result of a combination of physical and cognitive activity, as well as data confirming the role of modern technological tools that ensure the training of cognitive abilities. Conclusions. Current evidence suggests that the hypothesis of a relationship between physical activity and executive functions is confirmed, but the nature of the relationship between them remains unknown. It is assumed that the inclusion of cognitive tasks in physical education programs will allow combining two main methods of executive function development.

General Information

Keywords: functions, cognitive training, physical exercises, self-regulation, cognitive functions

Journal rubric: Neurosciences and Cognitive Studies

Article type: review article

DOI: https://doi.org/10.17759/jmfp.2026150114

Received 05.12.2024

Revised 09.10.2025

Accepted

Published

For citation: Tikhomirov, R.V. (2026). The problem of the development of executive functions in modern foreign studies. Journal of Modern Foreign Psychology, 15(1), 153–161. (In Russ.). https://doi.org/10.17759/jmfp.2026150114

© Tikhomirov R.V., 2026

License: CC BY-NC 4.0

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Information About the Authors

Roman V. Tikhomirov, lecturer at the Department of Theory and Methodology of Physical Education, Petrozavodsk State University, Petrozavodsk, Russian Federation, ORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0001-3066-5965, e-mail: roma.987p@yandex.ru

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