Transtheoretical Model (Stages of Change)

The Transtheoretical Model (TTM), also known as the Stages of Change model, was developed by psychologists Prochaska and DiClemente.  It suggests that an individual changes behavior by moving through a series of motivational stages:precontemplation, contemplation, decision/determination, action,maintenance and relapse. (6)  (See Figure 2.)

Precontemplation

In the precontemplation stage, the individual has not thought about or considered a change in behavior and, therefore, has no intention of adopting the behavior. 

Contemplation

During contemplation, the individual is seriously contemplating the behavior but has not yet taken action.

Decision/Determintation

In the decision/determination phase the person is making a plan to change.

Action

In the action phase, the person makes an initial behavioral change.  The action phase covers the first six months of changed behavior. 

Maintenance

After the first six months the person enters the maintenance stage, in which the change is maintained and sustained over time.

Relapse

Relapse is classified as a secondary stage of change.  It describes reversion back to an earlier stage after having tried but failed to maintain a behavior.  It may happen at any time after action is taken.