Rohollah Shahabi, Javad Kavusian, Saeid Akbari Zardkhaneh, Nastaran Rezae,
Volume 6, Issue 1 (6-2018)
Abstract
Abstract
Working memory is the comprehensive cognitive system that embedded attentional and memorial mechanisms and therefore can be used in systematic research of cognitive problems. Accordingly, the aim of this study was to investigate the developmental changes of working memory capacity, and its components, including phonological loop, visuospatial sketchpad, and central executive (inhibition and updating). A total of 356 children (8 and 12 years) recruited from primary school in Tehran were selected and tested. Digit Span, and the Kim Karad Visual Memory Test were used for measuring phonological loop and visuospatial sketchpad. Working memory capacity was measured by Backward Digit Span, and finally, the Stroop Task, and the Keep Track task measured central executive. Data analyzing showed as child growth, working memory and its components become more effective. More skills in arithmetic abilities, more flexibility in storage and processing, more experience in academic achievement and more use of metacognitive strategies can be possible reasons for the results of this study.
Shima Khajevand, Abdolmagid Bahreinian, Maryam Nasri, Fatemeh Shahabizadeh,
Volume 12, Issue 1 (Volume12, Issue 1 2024)
Abstract
Research and clinical observations demonstrate that anxiety is a prevalent mental health issue in children, impacting various aspects of their lives throughout different developmental stages. The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of mentalization-based therapy and parent-child relationship-based therapy in addressing executive functions and anxiety symptoms in anxious children. This research employed a semi-experimental design with pre-test, post-test, and follow-up assessments. The study's statistical population consisted of mothers of anxious children from the Bandar Abbas Oil Refining Company in 1402, with 45 eligible participants selected through available sampling and randomly assigned to two experimental groups and a control group. Assessment tools included Giova et al.'s behavioral rating questionnaires (2000) and the Spence-Parent Form children's anxiety scale (1998) administered at pre-test, post-test, and follow-up stages. Data analysis utilized SPSS 26 software, incorporating descriptive and inferential statistics. The results of the mixed variance analysis indicated a significant difference between the control group and the mentalization-based and relationship-based treatment groups regarding executive functions and anxiety symptoms in anxious children (P < 0.05). Both mentalization and parent-child relationship interventions contributed to reduced anxiety symptoms and improved executive functions in anxious children. Furthermore, parent-child relationship therapy demonstrated greater efficacy in alleviating anxiety symptoms compared to mentalization-based therapy. Consequently, based on the study's outcomes, it is plausible to consider mentalization and parent-child relationship interventions as appropriate strategies for enhancing executive functions and alleviating anxiety symptoms in anxious children.
