What is one major risk during the action stage of the Transtheoretical Model?

The action stage of the Transtheoretical Model, also known as the Stages of Change model, is when individuals actively modify their behavior and undertake efforts to change. During this stage, one significant risk is relapse, which refers to the potential return to previous behaviors or habits.

Relapse can occur for various reasons, such as stress, lack of support, or encountering triggers that remind the individual of their previous behavior. This is critical because individuals in the action stage are making significant changes that require sustained effort and vigilance. If they are not prepared for setbacks or do not have strategies to cope with challenges, they may revert to old patterns. Understanding this risk is essential for anyone trying to change behaviors successfully, as planning for potential pitfalls can enhance resilience and promote a more robust commitment to maintaining new, positive behaviors.

Other concepts like overconfidence, skepticism, and complacency are relevant in behavior change discussions but do not capture the immediate and tangible risk of discontinuing the changes made during the action stage. Recognizing relapse as a major concern highlights the dynamic nature of behavior change and the need for ongoing support and strategies to sustain progress.