An integrative model of change in smoking habit modification

This research article presents an integrative model of change applied to a sample of 872 participants (mean age 40 years) who were independently modifying their smoking habits. The subjects represented five distinct stages of change: precontemplation, contemplation, action, maintenance, and relapse. The study aimed to identify the differential emphasis on ten processes of change across these stages. Key findings indicate that participants utilized the fewest processes during the precontemplation stage. During the contemplation stage, there was a notable emphasis on consciousness raising. Self-reevaluation was significant in both the contemplation and action stages, while self-liberation, helping relationships, and reinforcement management were predominantly emphasized during the action stage. Furthermore, participants engaged in counterconditioning and stimulus control primarily during the action and maintenance stages. Notably, individuals who relapsed exhibited behaviors characteristic of both contemplators and those in action. The results contribute to the development of a comprehensive model for self-change regarding smoking cessation and support the enhancement of a more integrative general model of behavioral change. [NPID: Stages of change, integrative model, self-change, behavior change]

Year: 1983

Reference: Prochaska, J. O., & DiClemente, C. C. (1983). Stages and processes of self-change of smoking: Toward an integrative model of change. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 51(3), 390–395. https://doi.org/10.1037/0022-006X.51.3.390