Stages of Change

Jul.25, 2006 in Deep Thought, Emotions, Expressing Oneself, Finding Purpose, General, Human Tendencies

Here’s an interesting model for change, which I found after doing some research on the web.

The stages and processes are described by Prochaska, DiClemente and Norcross (1992).

1. 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)

2. Contemplation: Individual recognises the problem and is seriously thinking about changing.

Processes:
Self-reevaluation (assessing one’s feelings regarding behavior)

3. Preparation for Action: Individual recognises the problem and intends to change the behaviour within the next month.

Processes:
Self-liberation (commitment or belief in ability to change)

4. Action: Individual has enacted consistent behaviour change for less than six months.

Processes:
Reinforcement management (overt and covert rewards)
Helping relationships (social support, self-help groups)
Counterconditioning (alternatives for behaviour)
Stimulus control (avoid high-risk cues)

5. Maintenance: Individual maintains new behaviour for six months or more.

Assess your own desire to change or make changes, and the processes indicated might help you or a loved one create the changes required.