BILINGUALISM AND COGNITIVE ADVANTAGE: A NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL THEORETICAL APPROACH

This article provides a theoretical neuropsychological analysis of bilingualism and its relationship with executive functions. The mechanisms of language selection, inhibition, and switching in bilingual individuals are examined within the framework of cognitive control theory. Particular attention is paid to inhibitory control, working memory, cognitive flexibility, and mental switching as core components of executive functioning. The article also discusses language interference, cognitive load, and contextual factors influencing bilingual performance. Both the potential cognitive advantages and the challenges associated with bilingualism are analyzed. The study contributes to theoretical foundations in educational neuropsychology and offers directions for further empirical research.