Transtheoretical Model (Stages of Change)
This model uses five stages to explain the ability of a person to achieve a recommended health promotion action or behavior. These stages, though explained in progression, do not necessarily maintain order when real behavior changes are begun:
- Precomtemplation – the stage where there is no intent to change within the next six months and/or the individual doesn’t not even know a change might be beneficial
- Contemplation – at this stage, an individual is considering positive health action (e.g., begin walking) within the next six months but no specific steps towards the action have been planned
- Preparation – the person intends to take action (even within the next 30 days) and they have taken steps in that direction (e.g., scheduled to meet friends after school to walk or bike).
- Action – is taking action and has performed (consistently) the behavior for less than six months
- Maintenance – has changed/improved behavior and has maintained it for more than six months
According to “Stage of Change”, people must progress through the stages and not skip any. However, individuals bounce back and forth through the stages. The amount of time spent in each stage varies depends upon self-efficacy, perceived reinforcement value and the likelihood that the changed behavior can be mastered. This model combines many elements of others and is popular in nutrition education, activity and behavior programs and studies.