Final answer:
A model of executive function describes a hierarchy from sensory cortical areas to the frontal cortex. The posterior regions are affected by immediate situational aspects, while the anterior regions, such as the prefrontal cortex, handle the larger context and higher cognitive processes like working memory and attention control.
Step-by-step explanation:
One prominent model of executive function argues that there is a nested hierarchy of control from sensory cortical areas to portions of frontal cortex, with the most posterior regions being influenced by the most immediate aspects of a situation and more anterior regions by the larger context.
The prefrontal cortex is associated with higher cognitive processes such as working memory, often referred to as a "mental scratch pad." It plays a crucial role in organizing and representing information not present in the immediate environment. This region is pivotal for attention control, including the inhibition of distracting thoughts and actions, allowing a person to concentrate on a goal and thereby guide behavior towards achieving that goal. The prefrontal cortex, which is anterior to the motor association areas such as the premotor cortex and Broca's area, is responsible for judgment, abstract reasoning, and working memory.