Six Stages for Improving Human Behavior

A study by behavioral scientists on how people change to improve their behavior resulted in the concept that there are six definite stages in behavior modification. These observed stages of change in a person are:

1. Pre-contemplation
2. Contemplation
3. Preparation
4. Action
5. Maintenance
6. Termination

Understanding these stages and using the appropriate change process is considered a highly effective technique to help solve problems and improve a person’s behavior.

Various psychotherapies can be used to modify or improve the behavior of people with problems. Most are mildly effective. Of these psychotherapy strategies, specific ones can be used in the various stages to more effectively improve the behavior of an individual.

Questions you may have include:

• What are the six stages of change?
• What are the various change processes?
• How is this method applied?

This lesson will try to answer those questions. There is a mini-quiz at the end of this lesson.

1. Pre-contemplation stage

Pre-contemplation is a situation where the person can’t see a problem, so he or she doesn’t consider the need for a solution. People in this stage have no intention of changing their behavior and even deny having a problem, even though others may complain about it. They resist change and would rather have those around them change.

An example is an alcoholic who would rather lose his family than stop drinking. Another situation is where peers may encourage cheating or stealing, causing the person to believe that is the correct way to behave.

2. Contemplation stage

People in the contemplation stage admit they have a problem and would like to change, but they aren’t ready to make a commitment. They think about it but don’t act.

Emotional arousal and giving a strong argument for the need to change can sometimes help move these people.

3. Preparation stage

People in the preparation stage are planning on taking action soon. They are committed to action, but they still may need to convince themselves that taking action is the best for them. They may have already started changing their behavior with small steps, but they still need some careful planning before taking full action.

Some preparation changes that can be made are that of improving the level of awareness, emotions, self-image, and thinking. These will lead up to changing their behavior.

4. Action stage

In the action stage, people modify their behavior and their surroundings. This is the most visible and requires the most commitment of time and energy.

5. Maintenance stage

There is a struggle to maintain the gains made in the action stage to prevent lapses. Maintenance is a long and ongoing process, and there is a fight not to give in to temptation to go back to the old ways.

6. Termination stage

The behavior is completely changed and the person has confidence that he or she is not threatened by temptation. In such a situation, a person may no longer crave cigarettes or have uncontrollable anger fits.

In conclusion

Some scientists have concluded there are six definite stages in behavior modification. These are: Pre-contemplation, Contemplation, Preparation, Action, Maintenance and Termination. Various psychotherapies are often used to modify behavior of people with problems. Specific psychotherapy strategies can be used in the various stages to more effectively improve the behavior of an individual.

Reader Questions and Comments | Where can you go from here?

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Resources

The following are resources on this subject.

Websites

Behavior-Modifying Psychotherapies

Strategies to Change Human Behavior

Principles for Using Behavior Modification – Listing of principles, adapted from: Changing Children’s Behavior by Krumboltz, J., & Krumboltz, H., Prentice-Hall (1972)

Journal of Human Behavior in the Social Environment

Biological Basis of Human Behavior – A different look at human behavior

Behavior Resources

Books

Miscellaneous

School for Champions brand products – Visit our online store for t-shirts, caps, mugs and other products.

Some of the many designs and products

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Mini-quiz to check your understanding

QUIZ

Self-check your understanding

1. What is an example of a person in the preparation stage of change?

   I'm fine, but you have problems coping with meNot even close. Try another answer. I give myself a treat when see an improvementSorry, not correct. Try another button. I'm planning on quitting smoking soonThat is correct. You sure know how to change behavior.

2. Why is a public commitment is more powerful than the private decision?

   There is social pressure to prove yourselfCorrect. You're getting better every day. It is the other way aroundSorry, not correct. Try another button. You will get rewards from your friends for good intentionsOops! Wrong answer. Re-read the question and try again.

3. What environmental control can be used to help you stay on your diet?

   Reduce pollution caused by excess eatingNot even close. Try another answer. A warning sign on the refrigeratorThat is correct. You sure know how to change behavior. Environmental controls are only used in the pre-contemplation stageOops! Wrong answer. Re-read the question and try again.

Pick an answer to see instant feedback. Re-read the lesson if you miss one.

If you got all three correct, you are on your way to becoming a champion in understanding behavior. If you had problems, you had better look over the material again.

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