The Stages of Change Model was developed at the University of Rhode Island in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Carlo DiClemente and James Prochaska found that when smokers or people with other addictions and bad habits were able to successfully change their behavior, it was not achieved in one step; but rather in stages. The rate at which an individual progresses through the stages will vary from person to person.
Precontemplation
Precontemplation is the stage at which a smoker has no intention of changing his habit in the foreseeable future. A smoker in the precontemplation stage may defend his bad habit and does not feel it is a problem. If someone offers advice on how to quit he may become defensive and won't be interested in any kind of help. He is likely to be unaware or under-aware that he is addicted to nicotine and that it is a problem. Alcoholic Anonymous describe this stage as being "in denial."
Contemplation
The second stage, contemplation, is when a person becomes aware that a problem exists and begins to think seriously about overcoming the habit. During the contemplation stage, a smoker may weigh the pros and cons of quitting. He is likely to be fearful when contemplating life without his "crutch" although he will also be aware there is much to be gained if he quits. His addicted mind will invent excuses to continue smoking that his rational mind will need to overcome. The contemplation stage may last a few weeks, or a smoker may never get beyond thinking about quitting and will never move to the next stage.
Preparation
Preparation is the stage when a smoker prepares to make change. He may begin to experiment by making small changes, such as changing his brand of cigarettes to one he does not enjoy so much, or by smoking his first cigarette later in the day. He will probably perform research to find out what help is available, and may call a help line for information. He may additionally make statements that reflect his commitment to change.
Action
The fourth stage is the action stage; this stage involves the most apparent changes in behavior, and a strong commitment is required. A smoker who reaches the action stage believes he has the ability to change and will use a variety of techniques to refrain from smoking. He will likely develop a plan that will minimize the risk of slips, such as not meeting up with friends who smoke. He may also refrain from activities such as drinking alcohol that may tempt him to smoke. He is likely to be open to offers of help and also to seek support from others.
Maintenance
The maintenance stage is when the now ex-smoker works at preventing relapse and avoids situations that may entice him to start smoking again. He will be acquiring new skills and coping methods to use in situations when he would have, in the past, reached for a cigarette. To successfully navigate the maintenance stage, an ex-smoker must remain aware of what his goals are and recognize that it can take time to let go of old habits; but he will resist temptation if the thought of smoking arises.
Considerations
Preventing relapse involves incorporating new habits, and many smokers will experience a "slip" or a relapse, as they work through the changes. A smoker who relapses is likely to be discouraged, but those who have been successful in quitting usually have cycled through the different stages several times before permanently reaching the maintenance stage.
