The Six Stages of Change

Front

What is the first stage of change?

Back

Pre-contemplation: People are not intending to make any changes and may be unaware of any bad effects of their behaviour.

Front

What characterises the contemplation stage?

Back

People want to change but not right now. They are aware of the pros and cons of changing, which can produce ambivalence and conflict.

Front

What happens during the preparation/determination stage?

Back

People start investigating change and view it as a reality. They intend to take action in the immediate future, usually within the next month.

Front

What is the action stage?

Back

People have a plan of action to reduce, stop, or alter their behaviour to reduce any bad effects. They start to make changes.

Front

What defines the maintenance stage?

Back

Lifestyle changes occur and are maintained through proactive attention to behaviour and thought processes. People work to prevent relapse and become more confident in their change.

Front

What is relapse in the stages of change?

Back

Relapse occurs when people start the behaviour again, which can range from brief to long term.