What is the first stage in the Transtheoretical Model of behavior change?

The first stage in the Transtheoretical Model of behavior change is pre-contemplation. In this stage, individuals are typically unaware of their problematic behavior or do not recognize the need for change. They may not see their current behavior as a problem, and, as a result, they are not considering making any changes in the near future. This stage is crucial as it lays the groundwork for moving towards awareness and deliberation in the subsequent stages. By identifying where a person is in this model, practitioners can tailor interventions that help individuals progress to the next stage, which is contemplation, where they start to recognize the possibility of change. Understanding the pre-contemplation stage helps in developing strategies to increase awareness and engage individuals in the change process.