Executive Functions and Adaptation in Vulnerable Contexts: Effects of a Digital Strategy-Based Intervention

Childhood and adolescence are critical periods for the development of Executive Functions (EF), which underpin self-control, planning, and social adaptation, and are often compromised in children growing up in psychosocially vulnerable contexts. This study examined the effects of STap2Go, a fully digital, strategy-based EF training, on EF performance and self-perceived maladjustment in 36 at-risk children and adolescents compared with 32 controls. Participants completed pre- and post-intervention assessments using the Neuropsychological Assessment Battery of Executive Functions (BANFE-3) and the Multifactorial Self-Evaluative Test for Child Adaptation (TAMAI). Results showed a significant effect of training on global EF and on General Maladjustment, with improvements only in the intervention group. These findings support the inclusion of scalable, avatar-guided EF stimulation programs such as STap2Go within social inclusion pathways for youth in vulnerable situations.