Relationship Between Fluid Intelligence and Executive Functions in Different Periods of Life: a Literature Review

Executive functions (EF) are a cognitive domain of great relevance for humans. However, there is a lack of reviews that analyze the relationship between fluid intelligence (IF) and EF in the lifespan. This study aimed to examine, through a literature review, the relationship between FI, assessed by the Raven Progressive Matrices Test, and EFs in different periods of life. The databases used were: PubMed, PsycINFO, Scopus, SciELO, Web of Science, BIREME, Google scholar and ProQuest databases, using the descriptors executive functions, fluid intelligence and Raven test, in June 2020. The search resulted in 367 potential articles to compose the review. After applying the exclusion criteria, 13 articles were selected and analyzed. Working memory was the component of EF most studied and associated with FI in all age groups. Despite the evidence, more research needs to be developed to better understand the magnitude of this relationship, taking into account the physiological, cognitive, sociocultural aspects and individual differences in development process.