Learning library
Improving mental health
What Takes Place During the Change Cycle's Pre-Contemplation Stage?

What Takes Place During the Change Cycle's Pre-Contemplation Stage?

Pre-contemplation is the first stage in the transtheoretical model of change, which was...

Pre-contemplation is the first stage in the transtheoretical model of change, which was developed to help us understand someone's readiness to change. During the precontemplation phase, you might not able to see your behaviors as harmful.

What Happens During The Pre-Contemplation Stage?

During the pre-contemplation stage, people are not thinking about changing and they’re not looking for help. They might not see the need for change. 

The precontemplation stage is sometimes defined by four words: reluctance, rebellion, resignation, and rationalization. 

  • Reluctant to admit the need for change.
  • Rebellion against the necessity for change. 
  • Resignation about the possibility that change is needed
  • Rationalization about their behavior 

During this phase, they are likely to ignore advice from others. 

🗓️
Book with Confidant

Next day availability for medications, therapy, and coaching, book your appointment now.

Book appointment

How Long Does the Pre-contemplation Stage Last?

The length of the pre-contemplation stage of change varies. Some might spend decades without realizing they need to change, while others start to think about making a change within days. Since no two individuals are alike, there’s no way to tell how long the pre-contemplation stage will last. 

🗓️
Book appointment

Next day availability for medications, therapy, and coaching, book your appointment now.

Book appointment

Can You Help Someone Who is in the Pre-contemplation Stage?

If you want to help, it is important to show support. It might be necessary for this person you care about to develop a better understanding of the consequences of their behavior before they can consider making a change. 

Interventions and rehabs are challenging events and may not be effective during the pre-contemplation stage. It may be that this person is not there just yet, but patience and compassion during this time may help them find the desire to change.

This article has been medically reviewed by
Erin Hillers
Erin Hillers
Erin Hillers
Nurse Practitioner

Erin is a Nurse Practitioner with 8 years of experience in midwifery and women's health. She has spent the past 5 years specializing in the treatment of opioid and alcohol use disorders.

Book appointment
👍
Recommended reading
3 mins
read time
14 Tips for Getting Started on Building Self-confidence
4 mins
read time
5 Tips for Training Your Mind Toward Self-Confidence
3 mins
read time
4 Tips to Boost Your Confidence
4 mins
read time
11 Tips for Improving Your Confidence
4 mins
read time
How can assertiveness help me build confidence?
4 mins
read time
How can assertiveness help me build confidence?
2 mins
read time
How can I cultivate and live a fuller life?
3 mins
read time
How can I serve others?
2 mins
read time
How do I live an ethical life?
4 mins
read time
How do I make myself try new things?
4 mins
read time
How do supportive relationships help build confidence?
3 mins
read time
How is confidence developed?
2 mins
read time
How to Become More Self-Aware?
4 mins
read time
Learning How to Deal with Mistakes and Failure
5 mins
read time
Relapse in the Recovery Process: Why Do People Relapse?
4 mins
read time
Stages of Behavior Change
2 mins
read time
What are some techniques for managing my emotions?
4 mins
read time
What are some ways I can be more compassionate with myself?
2 mins
read time
Methods for Cultivating Wisdom in Life
2 mins
read time
What is confidence?
3 mins
read time
What is reparenting?
3 mins
read time
What is the best way to avoid distractions?
3 mins
read time
Managing the Maintenance Stage of the Change Cycle
3 mins
read time
What Really Happens During the Contemplation Stage of Change
3 mins
read time
What Happens in the Preparation Stage of the Change Cycle?
3 mins
read time
What should I know about the action stage of the change cycle?
2 mins
read time
What Takes Place During the Change Cycle's Pre-Contemplation Stage?
3 mins
read time
What’s the best way to redirect motivation associated with drug use?
3 mins
read time
The Importance of Personal Values in Recovery
Confidant mobile app screens
Get immediate access to the care you need today

Scan the QR code below to download the app.

QR code to download the app
Download on the App StoreGet it on Google Play