ABSTRACT
Among neuropsychologists, the notion of executive functions has prompted much discussion and debate. Central to this debate is whether emotional and volitional factors should be incorporated into the definition. The purpose of this chapter is to argue for the necessity of incorporating sociocultural, historical, and emotional factors, as well as a developmental perspective, into any definition of executive functions that is offered. The
application of such a definition to cross-cultural neuropsychological studies, and to Hispanics in particular, is also discussed.
