The stage paradigm of change operates on the assumption that:

The stage paradigm of change operates on the premise that the majority of individuals are often not ready to change. This model, often associated with Prochaska and DiClemente's Stages of Change, suggests that change is a process, and individuals progress through different stages—Precontemplation, Contemplation, Preparation, Action, and Maintenance.

Most individuals start in the Precontemplation stage, where they may be unaware of their need for change or may not believe that change is necessary. This aligns with the idea that a significant portion of the population may not yet recognize the importance of adopting new behaviors or habits, leading to the conclusion that the majority are not ready to initiate change at any given time.

Understanding that many individuals may not be in a state of readiness to change is crucial for behavior change professionals. It emphasizes the need for strategies that can help move individuals from one stage to the next, fostering awareness and motivating them to consider making positive changes in their lives.