Changes in self-efficacy in Japanese school-age children with and without high autistic traits after the Universal Unified Prevention Program: a single-group pilot study

Abstract Background Research has shown the efficacy of school-based programs for mental health problems in children. However, few studies have focused on strengths children, such as resilience, which is essential preventing problems. Moreover, no research investigated effect a universal program children with increased autistic traits mainstream classes. We examined changes children's self-efficacy, social skills, and general after implementation newly developed program, Universal Unified Prevention Program Diverse Disorders (Up2-D2), whether similar occurred without higher traits. Methods To assess possible associated questionnaires were collected from 396 (207 boys 189 girls) aged 9–12 years old before (T1), immediately (T2), three months (T3) program. Results linear mixed-effects model showed significant increase self-efficacy at T2 (adjusted difference 0.49, 95% CI 0.03–0.94; p < 0.05) T3 (0.78, 0.32–1.23; 0.001). There also positive skills health. Similar observed high Autistic T1 did not contribute to degree change self-efficacy. Conclusions Our pilot study suggests that potential promote attitudes both at-risk not-at-risk