Executive Functions and their Relationship to Emotional Regulation in Hard of Hearing

Abstract

Background. Executive functions are a collection of mental processes that play a crucial role in regulating behavior and emotions, with their development starting in childhood. Hearing loss can affect these functions, resulting in language acquisition, challenges with learning, and social interactions. By understanding the relationship between executive functions and emotional regulation in individuals with hearing loss, we can create effective support strategies. Objective. The current study aimed to reveal the relationship between executive functions and emotional regulation in hearing impaired children. Methods In this cross-sectional survey, data were collected from 135 students (78 males and 57 females) of hearing impaired in integration programs in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (M age = 12.8 years, SD age = 1.68 years), the analytical descriptive method was used, and in order to achieve the objectives of this study, some tools were used, namely: The Barkley Deficits in Executive Functioning Scale-Children and Adolescents (BDEFS-CA) (Barkley, 2012) and the Emotional Regulation Scale (Gross & John, 2003). Results The results of the study indicated a positive correlation between executive functions and emotional regulation.  It appears that there were no observable differences between males and females in terms of executive functions and emotional regulation in children with hearing impairment. Emotional regulation skills appeared to contribute to 75% of the variability in executive function scores. However, it is important to note that these findings require further validation through additional studies employing stronger methodologies. Conclusion  This preliminary study offers valuable insights into potential strategies and programs for training executive function tasks, which have a significant impact on various aspects of development, particularly emotional development in children with hearing impairment.