Cognitive Flexibility

Image by Bruno /Germany from Pixabay

Cognitive flexibility is the act of switching one's thinking between multiple concepts or perspectives, as well as the ability to adapt to changing situations and circumstances. This involves being able to think creatively, find novel solutions to problems, and adjust one's behavior when face with new information or situations.

Cognitive flexibility is a vivid aspect of executive function, which is a set of mental skills that allows individuals to plan, organize, initiate, and complete tasks. It also assist in effective learning, as it allows individuals to adjust their thinking and behavior based on feedback and new information.

Here are some examples that illustrate mental cognitive flexibility

1. Your friend suddenly stops talking to you: with cognitive flexibility, you can think about why they’re acting this way. It allows you to consider their point of view and analyze the possibilities from every angle.

2. Someone gets sick for an event: for instance a key volunteer for a charity event gets sick. Cognitive flexibility will allow you to consider all the options to adjust quickly. You’ll think of other people you can call. Or you’ll find ways to adjust the event with the volunteers you currently have.

Research reveals that cognitive flexibility is associated with a variety of positive outcomes, including better academic performance, increased creativity, improved problem-solving abilities, and better mental health. However, deficits in cognitive flexibility have been linked to a variety of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

Writer : Theophilus Soglo