Prochaska & Diclemente’s Transtheoretical Model (1994) or Stage of Change Model is a very helpful framework that can guide our thinking about assisting clients to make behavior changes. The model is based on the assumption that intentions are the primary determinant of behavior change. Thus clients must have a want to make changes in their lives. In our practical work with clients we also integrate skills building because we know that many clients may want to change, but may not know how.
Precontemplation – In the Precontemplation Stage there is no want or motivation for change because the behaviors in question are believed to be acceptable. This may be due to a lack of information, a lack of consequences of behavior or an individual may have attempted change in past without success resulting in feeling hopeless or demoralized regarding the ability to change. There is an avoidance of thinking or talking about the behavior. Clients in this stage are often characterized as resistant, unmotivated or not ready for health promotion programs by providers. Reframing as precontemplative makes work easier with these clients.
Precontemplation – In the Precontemplation Stage there is no want or motivation for change because the behaviors in question are believed to be acceptable. This may be due to a lack of information, a lack of consequences of behavior or an individual may have attempted change in past without success resulting in feeling hopeless or demoralized regarding the ability to change. There is an avoidance of thinking or talking about the behavior. Clients in this stage are often characterized as resistant, unmotivated or not ready for health promotion programs by providers. Reframing as precontemplative makes work easier with these clients.
Contemplation – This stage is characterized by ambivalence – knowledge of the pros and cons of the behaviors. There is an awareness that problems may exist and thoughts regarding change, but without firm commitment to change. Clients in this stage are often characterized as procrastinators by providers. Reframing as contemplative makes work easier with these clients.
Preparation – In the Preparation Stage there is intention to take action and make changes in the immediate future. Typically these clients have taken some significant action in the past year and have a current plan of action in place.
Action – In the Action Stage specific overt modifications in life-style have been made.
Maintenance – In this stage, clients are maintaining changes in lifestyle, working to prevent relapse and strength building.
Relapse – In this stage clients revert to the behavior they were trying to change.
Movement between stages is typical. The goal is to keep individuals moving forward to higher stages of change and to help them develop tools and abilities to maintain changes made and/or get back on track if stage of change shifts
Movement between stages is typical. The goal is to keep individuals moving forward to higher stages of change and to help them develop tools and abilities to maintain changes made and/or get back on track if stage of change shifts
No comments:
Post a Comment