Each EF is a type of self-directed action. Consequently, SR is an inherent part of EF, making EF inherently future-directed. The developmental progression common to each EF is typified in the internalization of language. As the child matures, speech toward others becomes speech to the self yet, for a time, vocalized. It then progresses to subvocal self-speech and finally to fully covert or private speech that comprises verbal thought.
Response inhibition is the capacity to delay a response to an immediate environmental event.
SR is impossible without a delay in that response directed toward immediate reinforcement. This is done so that the actions occurring during an EF cannot be directly observed by others. I. Nonverbal Working Memory . Among the various senses, the most important to humans are vision and, to a lesser degree, hearing. It is not surprising, then, that this mental module is largely composed of visual imagery and private audition.