Understanding Change to Make Positive Shifts
Using the Cycle of Change for Psychological Problems
The Prochaska & DiClemente cycle of change is a stages of change model that helps to explain the process of behavioural change. This 'transtheoretical model' has been used in various contexts, particularly health promotion and health behaviour change. However, this approach can be applied to a range of other issues.
The model suggests that people undergo a series of stages to change their behaviour. These stages are:
Pre contemplation
Contemplation
Preparation
Action
Maintenance
Relapse
Each stage has challenges and tasks that must be completed to move on to the next stage.
Cycle Of Change
The precontemplation stage is when someone is not yet aware that they have a problem. They may deny an issue or simply not see a problem. This is where someone first needs to become aware of their problem before beginning the change process.
The contemplation stage is when someone is aware of an issue and begins considering a change. People in this stage may still be undecided about whether or not they want to change, but they are starting to think about it.
The preparation stage is when someone has decided that they want to change their behaviour and begins to take steps towards making that change. For example, they may start researching ways to change or seek support from others.
The action stage is when someone is actively working to change behaviour. For example, they may be seeking professional assistance or making lifestyle changes. Ideally, actions are based on a plan for success (rather than random acts)
The maintenance stage is when someone successfully changes their behaviour and works to prevent relapse. However, relapse is part of the process of change. Developing strategies to cope with setbacks allow people to achieve long-term change.
Change: How To
The Prochaska & DiClemente cycle of change can help people with psychological challenges (e.g., changing health behaviour, recovering from depression) by helping them understand the stages of change and what challenges they may face at each stage.
We use these stages to identify where people are in the change process. This model can also help people understand what to expect when making important life changes. Breaking the change process down helps people focus on the small steps needed to achieve long-term goals.
People can move back and forth between some stages. reverting to earlier stages is part of the change process, just like relapse.
I am a Coaching & Clinical Psychologist with extensive experience helping people conquer a range of wellbeing and performance issues at home and in the workplace. We can also help people maximise success through change processes. Read more about my work, watch practical skills videos or browse other articles. Get in touch anytime.
