What is the appropriate strategy for the contemplation stage of change?

What is the appropriate strategy for the contemplation stage of change?

• A. Raise awareness
• B. Set small steps
• C. Provide reinforcement and support
• D. Explore ambivalence

Answer: (D)

In the contemplation stage, the main task is to address ambivalence. The person knows change is possible and recognizes some benefits, but they haven’t committed to acting yet. The best approach is to explore that ambivalence—help them articulate both sides: what they stand to gain from changing and what they fear or stand to lose by changing, as well as what staying the same would mean. By asking thoughtful, open questions and using reflective listening, you help them surface motivations, concerns, and values that are shaping their readiness. This exploration often clarifies priorities and nudges the person toward a decision to act in the near future. Raising awareness fits earlier when someone doesn’t even see a problem; setting small steps and concrete plans are more aligned with preparation or the action/maintenance stages; providing reinforcement and support is most helpful once behavior change is underway.

In the contemplation stage, the main task is to address ambivalence. The person knows change is possible and recognizes some benefits, but they haven’t committed to acting yet. The best approach is to explore that ambivalence—help them articulate both sides: what they stand to gain from changing and what they fear or stand to lose by changing, as well as what staying the same would mean. By asking thoughtful, open questions and using reflective listening, you help them surface motivations, concerns, and values that are shaping their readiness. This exploration often clarifies priorities and nudges the person toward a decision to act in the near future.

Raising awareness fits earlier when someone doesn’t even see a problem; setting small steps and concrete plans are more aligned with preparation or the action/maintenance stages; providing reinforcement and support is most helpful once behavior change is underway.