A study of the influence of chess on the Executive Functions in school-aged children / Estudio del impacto del ajedrez sobre las Funciones Ejecutivas en niños de edad escolar

Abstract

This study researched the influence of learning and practising chess on two executive functions (planning and flexibility) in childhood. The performance of a group of child chess players was compared to a group of children who did not play chess through a planning test (Tower of London) and a cognitive flexibility test (Wisconsin Card Sorting Test).

The results showed a better performance in planning by the group of child chess players and suggested certain differences in flexibility (in favour of the group of chess players). This study adds evidence to the hypothesis that highly complex games like chess can favour the development of executive functions in childhood.