Power increases cognitive functioning

Life is filled with distractions. Information floods in. Situations change. To successfully navigate these challenges, individuals need to use a set of fundamental mental processes known as executive functions to regulate their thoughts and behaviours. Those with weak executive functions get distracted by temptations and overwhelmed by information; those with strong executive functions stay focused on their goals, and adjust their behaviours when situations demand so. What affects a person’s ability to regulate their behaviours and thoughts? A large body of research suggests that having power improves a person’s executive functions relative to lacking power.