Download Transtheoretical Model of Change This model is commonly

Transtheoretical Model of Change
This model is commonly portrayed as a cyclical model, with patients moving in a cyclical pattern
through the various stages as described below.
Precontemplation - is characterised by the lack of percieved need or intention for change.
Indivduals found in this stage may typically be invountarily or court ordered to receive services. They
may be as resistant to the counselling process as they were before giving into the pressure from
family members, friends or employers to seek assistance.
Contemplation – tends to be charactersied by an awareness of the problem yet a lack of decisive
action or a commitment to take ncessary actions for change. For all stages, especially contemplation,
it is important to distinguish between changes (desired outcomes) and necessary actions for change
(prerequisites for potential desired outcome.
Preparation- characterised by a decision to cahnge as evidenced by taking small behavioural and
mental actions necessary for change.
Action –is often characterised by overt behaviours, yet it is perhaps more accurately identified when
the motivation to take such steps is evidenced over time, effort, and commitment.
Maintenance – is characterised by a coninuation of necessary actions that must be met for the
desired change to be sustained.
In addition to these stages the model also describes the psychological processes which occur when
the person is moving through the various stages of change.
To fully understand and appreciate the complexity of the model it needs to be understood that the
stages and processes of change identified, need to be viewed within the level at which the problems
occur. The levels used by the model are outlined below:
Symptom/situational problems
Maladaptive cognitions
Current interpersonal conflicts
Family system conflicts
Intrapersonal conflicts
(Taken From Petrocelli, J. V. 2002)