BY MISSY CORRIGAN
Health and fitness contributor
Humans have the ability to make changes based on their chosen behaviors, but humans are also really good at telling rather than doing or setting goals but never reaching them. Researchers state that not having enough motivation leads us to contemplate the change but never act on it. Behavior change is hard because normal habits are interrupted. Additionally, it requires focus and energy to break an old habit or create a new one, especially if the surrounding environment or social circle must change.
Research shows that individuals who are motivated by positive factors are more successful than those who are motivated by fear or regret. However, they also note that regardless of the positive or negative drive behind the motivation, any step in making a positive behavior change is worthwhile. Making a long-lasting behavior change is a process, not a one-time occurrence.
One theory, the Transtheoretical Model, suggests that change takes place through different stages that build upon one another. This model, developed in the 1970s, suggests that individuals making behavior changes actually go through a recurring process of five stages:
- Precontemplation Stage - At this stage the individual has no intention of making any changes, does not even think about changing a behavior because he or she does not see it is a problem.
- Contemplation Stage - At this stage, the individual sees that the behavior is a problem. Although the person is still on the fence about making a change, he or she may increase awareness by reading about it, finding positive role models and weighing the pros and cons of making a change.
- Preparation Stage - At this stage, the individual is making an action plan with realistic goals to start the change within 30 days. It is important at this stage to identify triggers that promote unhealthy behaviors or any obstacles that would prevent a healthier behavior.
- Action Stage - At this stage, the individual is engaged in the new healthy behavior.
- Maintenance Stage - At this stage, the individual has maintained the behavior for six months with the intention to move forward with the behavior without relapse. The focus is on avoiding triggers or situations that encourage the old or negative behavior.
Researchers have yet to determine a specific amount of time for each stage, so it can definitely differ for each individual at each stage. Setbacks are a normal part of the behavior change process and should be expected along the way. Often we may not recognize other triggers or roadblocks to success until we encounter them. During these stages of change, it is crucial to your success that you have a supportive environment and social group along the way.
Missy Corrigan is executive of community health for Sumter Family YMCA. She can be reached at mcorrigan@ymcasumter.org or (803) 773-1404.
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September 01, 2020 at 05:00PM
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Changing behavior is a process with setbacks along the way - Sumter Item
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