Date of Graduation

5-2026

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science in Biology

Degree Level

Undergraduate

Department

Biological Sciences

Advisor/Mentor

Dr. Darya Zabelina

Abstract

The present study investigates the relationship between executive functions and creativity, measured through divergent thinking. Literature review determines that there should be a positive correlation between executive functioning and creative idea generation, however, findings are mixed. This study tested the level of correlation/predictability between executive functions, specifically, updating, shifting, and inhibition, and creativity. Participants (N=112) completed tasks assessing updating (letter memory), shifting (number letter) and inhibition (Stroop). They also completed the Alternative Uses Task (AUT) that measures divergent thinking. Pearson’s correlations and multiple regression analyses were conducted to examine any individual or combined relationship between executive functions and creativity. Results indicated no significant relationships between executive functions and creative idea generation. These findings do not support the hypothesis that on an individual and unified level, executive functions positively influence creative performance. The results are discussed in the context of measurement limitations and complexity of creative cognition. These findings suggest that executive functions may play a more indirect role in creativity than previously theorized.

Keywords

creativity; divergent thinking; executive functions

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