What does the term "cognitive flexibility" refer to?

Cognitive flexibility is defined as the ability to adapt one's thinking and behavior in response to new, changing, or unexpected conditions. This skill facilitates the adjustment of strategies or perspectives when encountering different challenges or environments, and it is crucial for effective problem-solving and decision-making.

Individuals who possess cognitive flexibility can switch between tasks or concepts and can adjust their responses based on the feedback they receive or the outcomes they observe. This adaptability is particularly important in dynamic situations where rigid thinking can lead to ineffective or inefficient responses. Cognitive flexibility allows a person to consider alternative solutions and shift approaches when faced with obstacles, making it a key component of overall cognitive functioning.

This capability contrasts with the other options presented, which either focus on memory recall, problem-solving efficiency without emphasizing adaptability, or a limitation to multitasking.