Becky has started thinking about quitting smoking but hasn’t made up her mind yet. If you were to design a message to appeal to
Becky using the transtheoretical model (stages of change) you would want to pinpoint her exact stage to be most effective. In which stage is Becky currently?
The contemplation stage is the second stage of the transtheoretical model (TTM) of change. At this stage, the individual becomes aware of their bad habit that they have as a problem that needs to be changed. However, the individual feels reluctant in actually deciding if they really want to take a step in making that change. They engage in weighing the pros and cons that come with the change, and may take more than several weeks before actually scaling through this stage.
Becky’s indecision in making up her mind to quit smoking, is indicative that she is in the contemplation stage of the transtheoretical model (TTM) of change, even though she acknowledges she has a problem.
Knowing fully well the stage that Becky is, according to the transtheoretical model of change, I can effectively design a message to appeal to Becky in an attempt to make her actually get to effect the change needed.
Becky is currently in stage 2, contemplation of the transtheoretical model. The transtheoretical model of change tries to explain change in individuals. it suggest six stages individuals go through during the change process. These stages are the precontemplation, contemplation, preparation, action, maintenance and relapse.
In the contemplation stage, the individual is aware of the need for a life style change but has not yet made up his/her mind. At this stage, the individual considers the pros and cons of the lifestyle change, the benefit derived from smoking and the pains of withdrawal. This stage can last for a long period of time and it ends with either the individual accepting to change or continuing in denial. Becky is most likely in this stage.
The encomienda system (in theory) was a feudal-like system where Spaniards would offer protection and education to the native populations in exchange for labor and money/gifts. In reality, the encomienda system was a horrible abuse of power and essentially slavery.
