Which sequence correctly lists the stages of the Transtheoretical Model in order?

• A. Precontemplation, contemplation, preparation, action, maintenance
• B. Precontemplation, Preparation, Contemplation, Action, Maintenance
• C. Contemplation, Precontemplation, Preparation, Action, Maintenance
• D. Precontemplation, Contemplation, Action, Preparation, Maintenance

Answer: (A)

Understanding how individuals move through stages of readiness for change in the Transtheoretical Model helps tailor interventions. The stages progress from not considering change to maintaining it: Precontemplation, Contemplation, Preparation, Action, Maintenance. This order reflects increasing commitment: in Precontemplation there’s no intention to change; in Contemplation the person recognizes the need to change; in Preparation they make concrete plans; in Action they implement the new behavior; and in Maintenance they work to sustain it over time. Other sequences misplace steps—for instance, moving to Preparation before Contemplation leaps ahead without recognizing the need, or performing Action before adequately preparing, or starting with Contemplation before there’s acknowledgment of the issue. Thus the sequence listed is the correct one.