Executive functions and health behaviors associated with the leading causes of death in the United States: A systematic review

J Health Psychol. 2020 Feb;25(2):186-196. doi: 10.1177/1359105318800829. Epub 2018 Sep 19.

Abstract

Research indicates that executive functioning may predict health behavior. This systematic review provides an overview of the relationship between domains of executive functioning and health behaviors associated with the leading causes of death in the United States. A total of 114 articles met the inclusion criteria (adult sample, published in English between 1990 and November 2016) and were reviewed and synthesized. Results indicated that although many studies had mixed findings, at least one executive function component was associated with every health behavior. Based on these results, health professionals should consider the role of executive functions in behavior change interventions.

Keywords: diet; executive functioning; exercise; smoking; systematic review; treatment adherence.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Systematic Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cause of Death*
  • Executive Function*
  • Exercise
  • Health Behavior*
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Public Health Practice
  • United States