Strategies to Improve Human Behavior

Some behavioral scientists believe there are six definite stages through which a person goes to modify or improve his or her behavior:

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

The meaning of each stage is explained in The Six Stages of Behavior Modification. The strategies include applying various Behavior-Modifying Psychotherapies within each stage.

Questions you may have include:

• What are the strategies for change?
• What is the result in each stage?
• What is the overall benefit of such strategies?

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

1. Pre-contemplation stage

In the pre-contemplation stage, where the person may not even think he or she has a problem, raising the consciousness about such a problem and providing social alternatives for certain behaviors will move the patient toward accepting he or she needs to change.

2. Contemplation stage

In the contemplation stage, where the person is thinking about changing, raising the person’s level of awareness about him- or herself and the problem is a start toward change. Social alternatives and arousing emotions about the issue are also used. Finally, using self-reevaluation and assessing feelings and thoughts about one’s self with respect to the problem can move the patient toward making a change.

3. Preparation stage

In the preparation stage, where the person is planning on taking action soon, using social alternatives and emotional arousal can be used to enhance the preparation and move the person to action. Allowing the patient to express feelings about his or her problems and possible solutions, plus choosing and committing to act, are also effective and should be used.

4. Action stage

In the action stage, where the person is actually modifying his or her behavior, a large number of change processes can be used. Finding social alternatives for certain behaviors, controlling the environment to eliminate temptations, and substituting alternatives for problem behaviors are effective. Self-rewards and self-praise for changes is useful. Letting others know of the commitment to change is important in the action stage. This includes enlisting someone who cares to help in making improvements.

5. Maintenance stage

In the maintenance stage, where the person is struggling to maintain the gains made, it is important for the person to announce his or her commitment to change. The person can also counter or substitute alternatives for problem behaviors. Environmental control of eliminating temptations is useful in this stage. Also getting rewards for the new behavior can be used. Finally, helping relationships assists in maintaining the new behavior.

In conclusion

Scientists concluded there are six definite stages in behavior modification. Numerous psychotherapies are 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

Six Stages for Improving Human Behavior

Behavior-Modifying Psychotherapies

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

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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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