Evaluation of executive functions in juvenile delinquents

Authors

  • Jarunan Chaithong, M.Sc. Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University
  • Thanayot Sumalrot, Ph.D. Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University
  • Tikumporn Hosiri, M.D. Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University
  • Natchaphon Auampradit, Ph.D. Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University

Keywords:

cognitive flexibility, executive function, inhibition, juvenile delinquent, planning

Abstract

Objective: To examine the executive functions among juvenile delinquents.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among adolescents and young adults aged 14 to 23 who had committed criminal offenses and were either ordered or sentenced by a court to be held at the Juvenile Vocational Training Centre. Intelligence quotient (IQ) was assessed using the Standard Progressive Matrices parallel version. Cognitive flexibility, inhibitory control, and planning were evaluated using the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test - 64 Card Version, the Stroop Color and Word Test, and the Tower of London - Drexel University, respectively. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and analysis of covariance (ANCOVA).

Results: The sample comprised 122 males with a mean age of 17.9 years (SD = 1.7). The sample demonstrated a normal range of cognitive flexibility (the mean perseverative responses and perseverative errors of 92.68 and 91.39, respectively) while performing poorly on inhibitory control (the mean Stroop interference score of -1.02) and planning tests (the mean total move score and total correct score of 81.98 and 86.26, respectively). ANCOVA with an adjustment for IQ revealed no significant differences in the three components of executive functions among those who committed different types of crimes and between first-time and repeat offenders.

Conclusion: The juvenile delinquents are on average deficient in inhibitory control and planning skills. Effective behavioral rehabilitation programs to enhance executive functions are crucial for these institutionalized individuals.

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Published

2024-06-28

How to Cite

1.
Chaithong J, Sumalrot T, Hosiri T, Auampradit N. Evaluation of executive functions in juvenile delinquents. J Ment Health Thai [Internet]. 2024 Jun. 28 [cited 2024 Jul. 18];32(2):153-65. Available from: https://he01.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/jmht/article/view/268721

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Vol. 32 No. 2 (2024): April - June 2024

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Original article

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