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In search of how people change. Applications to addictive behaviors
J O Prochaska1, C C DiClemente, J C Norcross
1Cancer Prevention Research Consortium, University of Rhode Island, Kingston 02881.
Abstract:
How people intentionally change addictive behaviors with and without treatment is not well understood by behavioral scientists. This article summarizes research on self-initiated and professionally facilitated change of addictive behaviors using the key trans-theoretical constructs of stages and processes of change. Modification of addictive behaviors involves progression through five stages--pre-contemplation, contemplation, preparation, action, and maintenance--and individuals typically recycle through these stages several times before termination of the addiction. Multiple studies provide strong support for these stages as well as for a finite and common set of change processes used to progress through the stages. Research to date supports a trans-theoretical model of change that systematically integrates the stages with processes of change from diverse theories of psychotherapy.
Insights
Understanding addictive behavior change is crucial. This research explores self-initiated and treatment-assisted changes through distinct stages and processes, offering a comprehensive trans-theoretical model.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral Science
- Psychology
- Addiction Research
Background:
- Behavioral scientists lack a clear understanding of how individuals intentionally modify addictive behaviors.
- Existing research on behavior change often overlooks self-initiated efforts versus professionally facilitated interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize research on intentional modification of addictive behaviors.
- To integrate the concepts of stages and processes of change within a trans-theoretical framework.
- To provide a comprehensive model for understanding addiction recovery.
Main Methods:
- Review and synthesis of existing research on behavior change.
- Application of the trans-theoretical model's constructs: stages of change and processes of change.
- Integration of findings from studies on both self-initiated and professionally facilitated change.
Main Results:
- Addictive behavior modification involves progressing through five stages: pre-contemplation, contemplation, preparation, action, and maintenance.
- Individuals often cycle through these stages multiple times before achieving termination of addiction.
- A common set of change processes facilitates progression through the stages, supported by multiple studies.
Conclusions:
- The trans-theoretical model provides a robust framework for understanding intentional addictive behavior change.
- This model systematically integrates stages and processes of change, drawing from various psychotherapy theories.
- Further research can build upon this integrated model to enhance addiction treatment and support strategies.