Subjective Executive Functioning in Relation to Physical Distancing Compliance

Abstract

Objectives: In this study, we assessed whether college students' social norm compliance (i. e., COVID-19 physical distancing compliance) predicted executive functioning (EF) after controlling for socioeconomic and mental health factors. Methods: Undergraduate students (N=302; age ≥ 18 years) from the University of California, Riverside participated in the study by completing an online survey assessing subjective EF, mental health (loneliness, depressive symptoms, anxiety), and physical distancing compliance. Results: A linear mixed-effects regression model yielded statistically significant main effects of subjective EF (p = .004) and perceived loneliness (p = .013) on physical distancing compliance; participants with poorer EF and who felt lonelier also reported less compliance with physical distancing. Conclusions: EF contributes to willingness to comply with new social behaviors. Core cognitive processes share neurocognitive mechanisms with social norm compliance; therefore, this study highlights the necessity of interdisciplinary research that bridges cognitive, social, and clinical psychology.