EXECUTIVE FUNCTION: COGNITIVE DEVELOPMENT, ADOLESCENCE AND DRUG ABUSE

Abstract

Introduction: Neuroscience brings advances and revelations of specificities and functionalities of the nervous system, contributing to the understanding of the exposure influences of neuroanatomic structures in various physiological and behavioral factors. Given this, it is known that executive functions are modeled as the most diverse forms of social interaction and are closely linked to the prefrontal lobe. These skills are consolidated only in adulthood. In this sense, the nervous system in adolescence is subject to changes in its development for social and cultural reasons. Objective: In this sense, the aim of this study is to analyze the use and abuse of recreational drugs that act on the nervous system and their influence on executive functions and cognitive development during adolescence. Methodology: The methodology used was a literature review of the integrative type in the PUBMED and ScieELO databases published in the last 10 years. Results and discussions: The use of alcohol, marijuana and inhalants are causative agents of cognitive impairment, especially in processing speed and response and working memory during adolescence, but results are still controversial as information such as dosage is lacking. , time of use and time of abstinence of users. Final Considerations: The results showed controversies in the performance of these substances in neurobiological bases and their long term damages; Therefore, further longitudinal studies are needed to monitor the cognitive development of these diseases and cognitive impairment and its consequences in adulthood.