Describe typical behavior or feelings that a patient might have during each phase of the stages of change model, and provide a potential example of how this might look in clinical practice

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

- Precontemplation – The patient is not ready to change and is not considering making any changes at the current time. The patient does not think that the benefits of flossing will directly benefit him/her.
- Contemplation – The patient thinks about changing some aspect of his/her life but has yet to make any actual alterations at this time. The patient wants to begin flossing but hasn't started to do so yet.
- Preparation – The patient is planning on making changes, and may have made some initial attempts at change. The patient has purchased floss from the pharmacy.
- Action – The patient has made definite changes in some form of his/her behavior. The patient has implemented a nightly flossing routine.
- Maintenance – Continuing the behavior change for 6 months or more. The patient continues to floss nightly for five years.
- Termination – the patient is at a point where he is no longer tempted to relapse. The patient now thinks of flossing as a regular part of his routine and appreciates the impact that it has had on his oral health.