In which stages of change do individuals acknowledge the need for change?

Individuals acknowledge the need for change during the contemplation and preparation stages. In the contemplation stage, individuals become aware of their problems and consider the possibility of making changes. They often weigh the pros and cons of changing behavior but have not yet committed to taking action. This self-reflection is crucial as it signals a shift from being unaware or in denial about the need for change.

In the preparation stage, individuals take this acknowledgment further by planning for change. They may start to set intentions and make specific plans for how they will enact changes in their behavior. This stage typically involves setting goals and gathering resources to support the upcoming changes.

These two stages are fundamental in the process of behavioral change, allowing individuals to move from mere acknowledgment to proactive planning, which sets the groundwork for successful change activism in later stages.