Which stage in the Transtheoretical Model is characterized by an individual being committed to a new behavior?

In the Transtheoretical Model, the stage characterized by an individual being committed to a new behavior is the Action stage. During this phase, individuals actively engage in the behavior change they have been contemplating and preparing for. They begin to implement their plans and take definitive steps toward adopting the new behavior in their daily lives.

This stage is crucial because it requires not just intention but also a commitment to making changes. Individuals in the Action stage often experience significant behavioral modifications and typically have made changes for a duration of less than six months. This is when their efforts begin to manifest visibly — for example, someone may start exercising regularly or change their eating habits.

It’s also important to note that, while the other stages play vital roles in behavior change, they focus on different aspects. Contemplation involves recognizing the need for change but not yet taking action; Preparation is about making plans to change; and Maintenance is where individuals work on sustaining the new behavior over the long term. Each stage contributes to the overall journey, but the Action stage is where commitment is actively demonstrated through behavior.