Question

vernices doctor has informed her that she is severely overweight, and that she should change her eating habits. vernice fully intends to comply and intends to start changing behaviors in the next month or so. according to the transtheoretical model, vernice is in the:

select one
a. precontemplation stage
b. contemplation stage
c. preparation stage
d. action stage

Explanation:

Analyze the Transtheoretical Model

The Transtheoretical Model (Stages of Change) describes the phases individuals go through when modifying behaviors:

• Precontemplation: No intention to take action in the foreseeable future (usually next 6 months).
• Contemplation: Intending to start the healthy behavior in the foreseeable future (usually next 6 months), recognizing the pros and cons of changing.
• Preparation (Determination): Ready to take action in the immediate future (usually defined as the next month). They start taking small steps toward behavior change.
• Action: Recently changed behavior (within the last 6 months) and intend to keep moving forward.
• Maintenance: Sustained behavior change for more than 6 months.

Evaluate Vernice's situation

The prompt states:

• Vernice "fully intends to comply"
• She "intends to start changing behaviors in the next month or so."

The intention to start changing behaviors within the next month aligns precisely with the preparation stage of the Transtheoretical Model.

Match with the options

• A. precontemplation stage: Incorrect, as she intends to change.
• B. contemplation stage: Incorrect, as she has moved past general consideration to planning action within the next month.
• C. preparation stage: Correct, as she plans to take action within the next month.
• D. action stage: Incorrect, as she has not yet started the behavioral changes.

Answer:

• (A) precontemplation stage
• (B) contemplation stage
• (C) preparation stage (Correct answer)
• (D) action stage