Which model focuses on an individual's readiness to change behavior?

The Stages of Change model, also known as the Transtheoretical Model, is specifically designed to assess an individual’s readiness to adopt a new behavior. This model outlines a series of stages that a person typically goes through when modifying behavior: precontemplation, contemplation, preparation, action, and maintenance. Each stage reflects a different level of readiness to change, allowing for tailored interventions that match the individual’s current state. This makes it particularly effective in public health practices where understanding and facilitating behavior change is essential.

The other models, while influential in understanding behavior change, do not encapsulate the specific focus on an individual's readiness to change in the same structured way. For instance, the Theory of Reasoned Action emphasizes intention as the primary predictor of behavior based on attitudes and subjective norms. The Health Belief Model centers on the belief in susceptibility to a health problem and the perceived benefits of taking action. Social Cognitive Theory involves learning through observation and the role of social influences, but it does not specifically address the stages of readiness for change like the Stages of Change model does.