Role of Inhibitory Functions in Working Memory: Evidence in Children and Adolescents

Abstract

Objective.
Different theoretical positions have posted a close relationship between working memory (WM)
and inhibition. Therefore, the aim of this study was to analyze the role played by inhibitory processes or
perceptual inhibition, cognitive inhibition and restraint inhibition in the development of WM between 8 and
18 years.
Method.
The sample consisted of 277 participants from the city of Mar del Plata divided into three
age groups (8-9 years, 10-12 years and 17-18 years). Participants were assessed with a task of WM that provide
several indicators of inhibitory functions.
Results.
Study results showed that performance in WM is higher in
older participants, with significant differential effect of age on WM. Significant effects were observed in relation
to the type of inhibition and the age group.
Conclusion.
Consistent with previous studies, a small relationship
between WM perceptual inhibition and restraint inhibition, this relationship is mediated by age.