In the Stages of Change model, which stage is characterized by planning what it would take to make a change happen?

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

Answer: (B)

The concept tested here is identifying the stage where a person shifts from thinking about change to actively planning how to make it happen. In the Preparation stage, individuals intend to take action in the near term and begin laying out the specifics needed to change. They gather information, set a concrete goal, choose a target date, and identify potential barriers and solutions, along with the resources and skills they’ll need. It’s the transitional point just before actual behavior change, when planning becomes concrete steps.

For example, someone considering quitting a habit might set a quit date, tell a support person, and arrange nicotine-replacement therapy or other supports. That planning and commitment to action in the near future characterize this stage.