- No single theory can account for all complexities of behavior change. A more comprehensive model is most likely to emerge from integration across major theories.
- Behavior change is a process that unfolds over time through a sequence of stages.
- Stages are both stable and open to change, just as chronic behavioral risk factors are stable and open to change.
- The majority of at-risk populations are not prepared for action and will not be served effectively by traditional action-oriented behavior change programs.
- Specific processes and principles of change should be emphasized at specific stages to maximize efficacy.
Two types of measures have been used to assess stages of change:
- Staging Algorithms
- Multidimensional Questionnaires
Staging Algorithms
- A short questionnaire is used to assign individuals to one stage each
- Time periods used are usually arbitrary
- Often used in smoking cessation research