LAUSR

Abstract Background This study investigated primary school teachers’ knowledge of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and their attitude and professional self-efficacy regarding children with ASD. Method Four hundred and ten mainstream primary school teachers were assessed using the Autism Stigma and Knowledge Questionnaire, the Autism Attitudes Scale for Teachers and a professional self-efficacy scale. Results The results showed that the teachers’ knowledge of ASD was significantly correlated with their attitude and professional self-efficacy regarding children with ASD. Attitude both mediated and moderated the correlation between knowledge and professional self-efficacy. Conclusions The study demonstrated that knowledge and attitude are important indicators of professional self-efficacy. As such, teachers’ professional self-efficacy regarding children with ASD can be improved by improving their knowledge of ASD and attitude toward these children.