Does the sum of the parts equal the whole: relationships between executive function, visual attention and heart rate variability in ROTC cadets

The prefrontal cortex of the brain filters a variety of competing demands in order to appropriately execute goals and intentions (Cooper & Shallice, 2000). This region is also critical for controlling visual attention (Stuss, Shallice, Alexander, & Picton, 1995) and regulating the autonomic nervous system and heart rate variability (HRV) (Thayer & Lane, 2000). Each of these processes has been examined separately, but none have explored the relationships among them. The current study examined visual attention, executive functioning, and HRV in undergraduate ROTC cadets. Forty-one cadets participated in this study wherein executive function was measured via self-report questionnaires, visual attention was assessed with a modified Flanker task, and HRV was measured twice weekly over a twelve-week period. Results revealed a moderate relationship between participants’ executive function (particularly those items related to behavioral regulation) and HRV. However, neither reaction time nor accuracy on the modified Flanker task was associated with HRV.

Grantor dc:publisher

University of Tennessee at Chattanooga

Author dc:creator

• Rogers, Kaila

Contributors dc:contributor

• Clark, Amanda J.
• Ferrier, David E.; Black, Kristen Jennings, 1991-
• College of Arts and Sciences

• Psychology -- Research -- Methodology

Licence

• https://rightsstatements.org/page/InC/1.0/?language=en

Language dc:language

English, eng

Repository record dc:identifier

https://scholar.utc.edu/theses/624

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:scholar.utc.edu:theses-1790