COMPARATIVE ASSESSMENT OF EXECUTIVE FUNCTION, VISUAL LEARNING AND COGNITIVE FLEXIBILITY AMONG INDIVIDUALS WITH ALCOHOL DEPENDENCE SYNDROME AND NON-ALCOHOLICS

Dr. R.Karthikeyan; Dr. S. Ithayamalar

Volume : IX, Issue : II, February - 2020

COMPARATIVE ASSESSMENT OF EXECUTIVE FUNCTION, VISUAL LEARNING AND COGNITIVE FLEXIBILITY AMONG INDIVIDUALS WITH ALCOHOL DEPENDENCE SYNDROME AND NON-ALCOHOLICS

Dr. R. Karthikeyan, Dr. S. Ithayamalar

Abstract :

Introduction: Alcohol generally considered as a central nervous system depressant, in large doses it functions like general anaesthetic. It impairs the executive function, visual and cognitive flexibility to a greater extent Objective: To compare the executive function, visual learning and cognitive flexibility among individuals with alcohol dependence syndrome with non alcoholics. Methodology: Based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 60 subjects were chosen. Out of whom 30 were control group and 30 were experimental group. Neuropsychological test batteries including Rey Osterrieth complex figure test (ROCF), The Trail Making Test (TMT) and Stroop colour test were conducted. Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test and Severity of Alcohol Dependence Questionnaire (SADQ) were also used. Results: Alcohol dependent individuals significantly represented poor executive function, visual learning and cognitive flexibility when compared with non alcoholic counter parts. Conclusion: Meticulous testing reveals early signs of impairment of executive functions and other parameters in alcohol dependence individuals, which may not be evident in day to day life. Hence they have been given suitable advice to abstain from alcohol to prevent further worsening of symptoms with the best outlook for reversal in the course of time.