In the stages of change model, which stage describes a client who is not yet aware of the need to change?

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

Answer: (C)

In this model, the stage where a client has little to no awareness that change is needed is precontemplation. People here often don’t see their behavior as a problem, may minimize or rationalize it, and have no intention to change in the foreseeable future. This contrasts with contemplation, where the person recognizes the issue and weighs options but hasn’t committed to action yet, and preparation, where they intend to take action soon and may start planning. In maintenance, the change has already been made and the focus is on sustaining it. Because motivation hasn’t begun, the approach is to raise awareness with empathy, provide personalized information, and explore ambivalence without pushing for immediate action.