Stages of Change Model
Theory Summary
1. Psychologists developed the Stages of Change Theory in 1982 to compare smokers in therapy and self-changers along a behaviour change continuum. The rationale behind "staging" people, as such, was to tailor therapy to a person's needs at his/her particular point in the change process. As a result, the four original components of the Stages of Change Theory (precontemplation, contemplation, action, and maintenance) were identified and presented as a linear process of change. Since then, a fifth stage (preparation for action) has been incorporated into the theory, as well as ten processes that help predict and motivate individual movement across stages. In addition, the stages are no longer considered to be linear; rather, they are components of a cyclical process that varies for each individual. The stages and processes, as described by Prochaska, DiClemente and Norcross (1992), are listed below.
Precontemplation: Individual has the problem (whether he/she recognises it or not) and has no intention of changing.
2.
Precontemplation: Individual has the problem (whether he/she recognises it or not) and has no intention of changing.
- Processes:
Consciousness raising (information and knowledge)
Dramatic relief (role playing)
Environmental reevaluation (how problem affects physical environment)
- Processes:
Self-reevaluation (assessing one's feelings regarding behavior)
- Processes:
Self-liberation (commitment or belief in ability to change)
- Processes:
Reinforcement management (overt and covert rewards)
Helping relationships (social support, self-help groups)
Counterconditioning (alternatives for behaviour)
Stimulus control (avoid high-risk cues)
2.
CONCEPT | DEFINITION | APPLICATION |
PRE-CONTEMPLATION | Unaware of the problem, hasn't thought about change | Increase awareness of need for change, personalise information on risks and benefits |
CONTEMPLATION | Thinking about change, in the near future | Motivate, encourage to make specific plans |
DECISION/DETERMINATION | Making a plan to change plans, setting gradual goals | Assist in developing concrete action |
ACTION | Implementation of specific action plans | Assist with feedback, problem solving, social support, reinforcement |
MAINTENANCE | Continuation of desirable actions, or repeating periodic recommended step(s) | Assist in coping, reminders, finding alternatives, avoiding slips/relapses (as applies) |
Source
1."Behaviour Change - A Summary of Four Major Theories" [PDF], FHI.
2.'Theory at a Glance: A Guide for Health Promotion Practice' National Institutes of Health, National Cancer Institute.
Comments






























Excellent articles (above)
Excellent articles (above) is most helpful.


Stages of Change model
very useful information. i have particularly liked the processes required for each stage to be chieved.

health promotion - subject smoking cessation
Information just ok, but as well useful.

stages of social action model
i think exploratory,discussion, action,group discussion and discussion are the stages of social action model
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