A client has sustained the behavior change for more than six months and is actively using strategies to prevent relapse. Which stage does this describe?

• A. Precontemplation
• B. Contemplation
• C. Preparation
• D. Maintenance

Answer: (D)

Understanding the stages of change and relapse prevention helps interpret this scenario. When someone has kept a new behavior for more than six months and is actively using strategies to prevent slipping back, they are in the Maintenance stage. This stage focuses on sustaining the change and weaving it into daily life, with ongoing efforts to avert relapse—such as continuing coping plans, seeking support, monitoring triggers, and adjusting routines to support the new behavior. Earlier stages describe readiness and initiation rather than long-term stability: precontemplation and contemplation involve little or no intention to change, preparation involves planning but not yet sustained action, and action covers actively making the change but typically within the initial period after starting.