The definition of “Stages of Change’ is behavior change is conceptualized as a process which unfolds over time progressing through a series of five stages: precontemplation, contemplation, preparation, action, and maintenance. Based on the Transtheoretical Model, focusing on intentional change and decision-making of the individual. “The key component to helping individuals cease smoking or the cessation to smoke is motivation, which is the essential factor in initiating the process of change” (Gantiva, Ballén, Casas, Camacho, Guerra, & Vila, 2015, pg.293). • Pre-contemplation-the individual is unaware that he/she a problem persist with substance abuse or dependence; therefore, he/she has no intention to change. • Contemplation-the individual is aware a problem persists, with drugs and thinks about changing the behavior, but has made no commitment …show more content…
• Action-The individual makes successful efforts to change his/her drug use. • Maintenance-The individual continues to change and prevents relapse or fails to do so and a relapse still occurs. Motivating the client to quit begins with the counselor or therapeutic supporter asking questions to aid in helping the client take the initial step to quit smoking. The questions for motivating the client, for example:- Relevance – How important is it to continue smoking? Risks – What are the risks if one continues to smoke? (children, money, self) Rewards- What are the benefits? Roadblocks- What deters a from not smoking? Repetition – Continued repetitive or clean house, do this again the next time the patient comes back in. Reference: Gantiva, C., Ballén, Y., Casas, M., Camacho, K., Guerra, P., & Vila, J. (2015). Influence of motivation to quit smoking on the startle reflex: Differences between smokers in different stages of change. Motivation And Emotion, 39(2), 293-298.