Which model describes an individual's readiness to change in stages?

Which model describes an individual's readiness to change in stages?

• A. Transtheoretical model
• B. Social cognitive model
• C. Health belief model
• D. Planned behavior model

Answer: (A)

The question is about a framework that maps how ready a person is to change behavior as a progression through distinct stages. The Transtheoretical Model does exactly that, outlining stages such as precontemplation, contemplation, preparation, action, and maintenance. It emphasizes that people move through these stages at their own pace and that effective interventions should be tailored to the individual’s current stage and the processes of change that help advance them to the next stage. The model also highlights concepts like decisional balance (pros and cons of changing) and self-efficacy, which influence progression through the stages. Other models describe factors that influence behavior—such as beliefs about risk and benefits (perceived threats and barriers), social norms and intentions, or how people learn from others and feel capable of change—but they do not structure readiness to change as a series of stages. That stage-oriented focus makes the Transtheoretical Model the best description for readiness to change in stages.

The question is about a framework that maps how ready a person is to change behavior as a progression through distinct stages. The Transtheoretical Model does exactly that, outlining stages such as precontemplation, contemplation, preparation, action, and maintenance. It emphasizes that people move through these stages at their own pace and that effective interventions should be tailored to the individual’s current stage and the processes of change that help advance them to the next stage. The model also highlights concepts like decisional balance (pros and cons of changing) and self-efficacy, which influence progression through the stages.

Other models describe factors that influence behavior—such as beliefs about risk and benefits (perceived threats and barriers), social norms and intentions, or how people learn from others and feel capable of change—but they do not structure readiness to change as a series of stages. That stage-oriented focus makes the Transtheoretical Model the best description for readiness to change in stages.