Creating a contract with the person to identify behavior goals that would produce positive outcomes in getting healthy is appropriate for what stage in the stages of change model?

The stage of change model, developed by Prochaska and DiClemente, outlines several stages individuals go through when modifying behavior. The creation of a contract with an individual to identify specific behavior goals is most aligned with the Action stage.

During the Action stage, individuals actively implement their plans and engage in new behaviors aimed at reaching their health-related goals. This is a time when they are focused on making concrete changes in their habits and behaviors. The process of creating a contract emphasizes commitment and accountability, which are crucial aspects of this stage since individuals are already motivated to transform their behavior.

In contrast, the Preparation stage is about planning and getting ready to take action but does not yet involve active change and implementation. The Contemplation stage involves awareness and considering change, while the Pre-contemplation stage means individuals are not yet considering change at all. Therefore, crafting a formalized contract for behavior goals is a clear indicator that someone is already engaged in actively changing their behavior, which fits perfectly within the Action stage of the model.