Digital self-efficacy training and its effects on self-efficacy and mental health outcomes: A randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVE: Self-efficacy has been identified as key factor in how individuals cope with stress. This study assessed the effectiveness and long-term effects of a one-week digital self-efficacy training among stressed U.S. college students, including those with mental health issues. METHOD: A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 93 participants, implementing a digital self-efficacy training combined with Ecological Momentary Assessment (EMA) against an EMA-only control group. Assessments were conducted at baseline, post-intervention, and one month later. Multivariate analyses were performed to assess changes in outcome variables due to the self-efficacy training. RESULTS: The self-efficacy training was associated with significant increases in self-efficacy (b = 0.10, SE=0.04, p = 0.01) and significant decreases in stress (b=-0.12, SE=0.04, p = 0.001), intolerance of uncertainty (b=-0.11, SE=0.04, p = 0.01), and depression (b=-0.12, SE=0.04, p = 0.002). Significant associations were found between mental health problems and most outcome variables. CONCLUSIONS: This study underscores the effectiveness of digital self-efficacy training in enhancing mental health parameters among challenged college students. Further research across diverse populations is warranted. Considering its potential to address clinical symptoms, integrating this training within clinical settings could serve as a valuable adjunct to other mental health interventions.