Using the antisaccade task to investigate the relationship between the development of inhibition and the development of intelligence

Dev Sci. 2009 Mar;12(2):272-88. doi: 10.1111/j.1467-7687.2008.00759.x.

Abstract

A number of authors have proposed models of cognitive development that explain improvements in intelligence over the course of childhood via changes in the efficiency of inhibitory processes (Anderson, 2001; Bjorklund & Harnishfeger, 1990; Dempster, 1991, 1992; Dempster & Corkill, 1999a; Harnishfeger, 1995; Harnishfeger & Bjorklund, 1993). A review of the literature reveals little empirical support for the thesis. This is largely due to a failure to distinguish between age-related and non-age-related changes in both inhibitory ability and intelligence. Empirical evidence is presented from a developmental study employing the antisaccade task to provide support for the role of inhibitory processes in the development of intelligence. Additionally, a case is made for a functional difference underlying antisaccade errors that are subsequently corrected and those that remain uncorrected.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Child
  • Child Development*
  • Cognition
  • Humans
  • Inhibition, Psychological*
  • Intelligence*
  • Photic Stimulation
  • Psychomotor Performance
  • Reaction Time
  • Saccades / physiology*