Abstract
Cognitive flexibility, or the ability to mentally switch according to changing
environmental demands, supports optimal outcomes across development. Despite the
importance of cognitive flexibility for development, little is known regarding the neural
mechanisms underlying it. The goal of the current study was to uncover developmental
differences in the neural systems supporting cognitive flexibility using a functional MRI
task designed to elicit switching mechanisms in both children and adults and by using a
novel method called co-activation pattern (CAP) analysis. The current study examined
neural differences in brain activation and dynamic brain states between children and
adults during a cognitive flexibility task, and the relationships between brain dynamics
and behavior. The CAP analysis revealed that children as compared with adults dwelled
longer in brain states consisting of hybrid brain states consisting of between-network
coupling. Additionally, in both children and adults, more frequent occurrence of a brain
state consisting of coupling between the default and central executive networks was
associated with better cognitive flexibility as measured by the Behavior Rating Inventory
of Executive Function. This study provides the first evidence of the developmental
changes associated with brain dynamic changes during cognitive flexibility and links
brain function with a real-world measure of cognitive flexibility, thereby paving the way
for future research of neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by atypical cognitive
flexibility.