Stages of Change Model for Smoking

The "Stages of Change" model applies to attempts at lifestyle adjustment, such as quitting smoking. The model describes the psychological and physical manifestations of the adjustment process and is meant to give individuals a clear plan and understanding of where they are on their journey toward a new lifestyle.

Precontemplation Stage

• During this stage, smokers are indifferent to their need to change. Some may be in denial about their need for lifestyle adjustment, while others may be truly ignorant to their need. As the title of the stage suggests, smokers at this stage simply aren't thinking about the adjustment process. Since they haven't taken the first step, the journey has yet to begin.

Contemplation Stage

• During this stage, the issue is finally on the table. While smokers in this stage haven't taken yet the first step toward quitting, they are now pondering whether or not they should move their foot. Smokers work through the pros and cons of quitting. For instance, pros may include financial, health and relational benefits. Cons may include the reality of withdrawal and the loss of certain relationships. After reaching the Contemplation Stage, the only way to go back to the previous stage is through denial.

Preparation Stage

• During this stage, the foot is tentatively probing the path. Small changes take place that resemble experimentation. The smoker may switch to filtered cigarettes, smoke a few less cigarettes a day or begin researching nicotine patches. According to the Cancer Prevention Research Center, this step marks the transition from "behavior intention" to "behavior." Mental adjustment begins giving way to physical adjustment.

Action Stage

• During this stage, smokers are walking down the path to lifestyle adjustment. They may be steadily decreasing their smoking frequency, wearing nicotine patches or chewing nicotine gum. Many smokers will see this as the most difficult stage. The smoker should surround themselves with positive feedback, encouragement and support.

Maintenance and Relapse Prevention

• During this stage, smokers come to realize that the journey can last a lifetime. Behavior adjustment is never permanent, and an ex-smoker is only one cigarette away from backsliding. Smokers trying to quit should not become too discouraged by minor setbacks. Individuals in this step often "recycle" back to previous steps several times over the course of their lives before finally adapting their behavior enough for it to be manageable. While some ex-smokers may eventually see no appeal in cigarettes, others will stay in this stage the rest of their lives.