Rhode Island Recovery Coach Practice Test

Which stage of the Stages of Change Model is characterized by the lack of intention to change?

1. Action

2. Pre-contemplation

3. Contemplation

4. Maintenance

The correct answer is: Pre-contemplation

The stage characterized by a lack of intention to change is the pre-contemplation stage. In this phase, individuals are typically unaware of their problems or do not see their behavior as problematic. They might be in denial or uninformed about the negative consequences of their actions, leading to no motivation for change. Individuals at this stage often resist efforts to engage in discussions about change or the need for recovery, as they do not recognize any need for improvement in their situation. The other stages—action, contemplation, and maintenance—indicate varying degrees of intention and engagement toward making a change. In action, individuals actively modify their behavior, while contemplation involves recognizing the need for change and weighing the pros and cons. Maintenance refers to sustaining the change that has been made. Therefore, pre-contemplation is distinct because it denotes the absence of intention to make any changes at all.