Does the BRIEF-P Predict Specific Executive Function Components in Preschoolers?

Abstract

The current study explored the association between the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function-Preschool (BRIEF-P; Gioia, Espy, & Isquith, 2003) and a new battery of direct executive function (EF) measures designed for preschoolers. Forty-two typically developing 3- to 5-year-olds were given the Preschool Executive Function Battery (PEFB; Garon, Smith & Bryson, 2014); their mothers filled out the BRIEF-P. The findings support distinct associations between 3 BRIEF-P scales and corresponding direct EF measures. In particular, a strong association was found between the BRIEF-P Inhibition scale and children's performance on the PEFB Inhibition measure. The findings indicate that parent ratings of preschoolers’ everyday EF behavior are related to performance on the PEFB, a laboratory measure. These findings have implications for early screening of children's EF difficulties as well as for future research.

Key words:

• BRIEF-P
• executive function
• inhibition
• preschool
• Preschool Executive Function Battery

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

The authors acknowledge with thanks the participation of the children and families and the assistance of the staff members of the participating day cares and preschools and of the staff of the Autism Research Centre at the IWK Health Centre.