Abstract

The aim of the study is to assess the executive functions among guitarists and non-guitarists. The components of the executive functions that were included in the study are cognitive flexibility, inhibitory control, working memory, and planning ability. PEBL software was used to test these components. Four computerized tests namely, Berg’s Card Sorting Test (BCST), Stroop Test, Corsi Blocks, and Tower of London were used to measure cognitive flexibility, inhibitory control, working memory, and planning ability respectively. 48 guitarists and 48 non-guitarists participated in the study from all over India. The performance of guitarists and non-guitarists on these tests was compared using Independent sample t-test. The results were analysed using SPSS software. The study revealed that the guitarists performed significantly better in Corsi Blocks and Tower of London. No significant difference was observed in BCST and Stroop test. In conclusion, no significant difference was observed in cognitive flexibility and inhibitory control of guitarists and non-guitarists. There was a significant difference in the working memory and planning ability with guitarists performing better.