Behavior in the Executive Functions of Children who Play Table Tennis during Competitions

Abstract

The objective of the research presented in this article was to analyze, through videos, executive functions of 3 children (13, 14 and 15 years old) selected who play table tennis of Temuco Chile. The organization and planning of actions, inhibitory control and study of mental flexibility were analyzed. The research was framed under the qualitative paradigm, with a descriptive-explanatory scope. The Atlas.ti © software was used to analyze the background information collected in the field, based on the use of a guideline with observation criteria. It was evidenced that subject 1 has a better control of the categories and variables investigated, which consequently was reflected in his outstanding results in the championships; subject 2 presents capacities to adapt to matches, however, sometimes he lost the concentration and self-confidence, which produced a decrease in their abilities. Finally, subject 3 lacks flexibility in his behavior and failed to adapt to service returns, which prevented him from obtaining better results. It is concluded that, in relation to inhibitory control, the observed players are at different levels and that in general mental flexibility is a relevant skill for players to have the ability to adapt to each game.