Which stage of change involves an individual actively considering a change?

The stage of change that involves an individual actively considering a change is known as the contemplation stage. At this point, individuals are aware of a problem and start to think about the possibility of making a change in their behavior but have not yet committed to taking action. They weigh the pros and cons of changing and often feel ambivalent about what steps to take next. This stage is crucial as it represents the shift from denial or ignorance towards acknowledging the need for change and beginning to consider how that change could manifest in their lives.

In contrast, the action stage involves actively implementing the change, while the preparation stage is about making specific plans to take action soon. The maintenance stage happens after a change has been made, focusing on sustaining the new behavior over time and preventing relapse. Understanding these stages helps in planning effective interventions and support for individuals looking to change their behaviors.