Chapter One: Introduction
Smart but Stuck: Emotions in Teens and Adults with Executive Function Deficits answers the question of why some people with highly advanced intellects have difficulties with their day-to-day functioning. In this chapter, author Thomas E. Brown provides readers with an overview of executive functioning challenges and the impact they can have on emotions. He also highlights the particular challenges faced by those with higher intelligence. For example, people with above-average IQs may become embarrassed or frustrated when tasks many others find easy take more effort for them to complete. This sets into motion a spiral effect of emotion and impaired ability, further exasperating the problem.
Chapter Two: Working Memory Deficits
In this chapter, Brown delves into the issue of working memory deficits and their influence on executive functions. He explains that working memory is what allows people to hold and manipulate data long enough to use it in a meaningful way. He then goes on to provide case studies of patients with executive functioning deficits. He outlines the differences in deficit types, including verbal, visual, and body-kinesthetic working memory challenges. This chapter focuses on the why and how working memory deficits negatively impact individuals with executive functioning deficits.
For example, Brown tells the story of Jeff, a 37-year-old accountant. Jeff has a high IQ, but he has difficulties with his emotional regulation and executive functioning. His academic record is spotty, as he often forgets book assignments, appointments, and other tasks. As Jeff's working memory deficit is identified, Brown outlines how it affects Jeff's ability to learn, work, and process emotions.
Chapter Three: Emotional Deficits
This chapter focuses on the issues that result from individuals being unable to identify and regulate their emotions. Brown illustrates this with the notion that those with executive functioning deficits may interpret events in an inaccurate and over-simplified manner, leading to emotional reactivity. He provides poignant examples of how this behavior can lead to roadblocks in both academic and professional settings.
One example Brown highlights is that of Sarah, a 45-year-old writing professor. Sarah's emotional reactivity gets in the way of her interacting effectively with her students. She has trouble listening to their ideas and gets frustrated when they do not understand her concepts. As a result, she puts up emotional barriers that prevent her from effectively teaching her course. With insight into her emotional deficits and executive functioning challenges, Sarah learns to take better control of her emotions to better relate to her students.
Chapter Four: Cognitive Deficits
In this chapter, Brown focuses on cognitive deficits, their impact on executive functioning, and how they can be managed. He looks at specific cognitive skills necessary for organizing, planning, and sequencing activities. Additionally, he highlights the particularly taxing effect of cognitive deficits on those of greater intelligence.
For example, Brown examines the case of Anjali, a teenage student with a high MCAT score but who struggled in school. As Anjali's problem was explored, it was discovered that she faced cognitive challenges regardless of her intelligence. Anjali learned to compensate for her deficits by breaking down her tasks into simple steps and using tools to help her remember information, ultimately helping her to perform more successfully both academically and socially.
Conclusion
Overall, Smart but Stuck provides readers with a comprehensive guide to understanding executive functioning deficits and managing the emotions that come along with them. Brown’s case studies and insights are invaluable for those looking to gain insight into executive functioning and its impact on emotions. His focus on academics, professional, and social life make this an important tool for understanding and aiding those who are struggling with executive functioning.
