Dietetic Technician Practice Test

Which of the following stages of behavioral change reflects a client openly discussing obstacles to change?

1. Pre-contemplation

2. Contemplation

3. Action

4. Maintenance

The correct answer is: Contemplation

The stage of behavioral change that reflects a client openly discussing obstacles to change is known as contemplation. During this phase, individuals become more aware of their behaviors and the need for change, and they start to weigh the pros and cons. They often express ambivalence about their habits, considering both their current situation and the potential changes they could make. In contemplation, clients might articulate the challenges that stand in their way, such as time constraints, emotional attachments to certain foods, or lack of support. This ability to recognize and discuss obstacles signifies a deeper level of engagement with the change process, indicating they are actively thinking about how to overcome these challenges. Other stages, such as pre-contemplation, focus on individuals who are not yet recognizing the need for change, remaining unaware of their issues. The action stage involves actively implementing the changes, while maintenance is about sustaining those changes over time. In these stages, discussions about obstacles may occur, but they are typically more focused on the execution and sustainability of behaviors rather than the contemplation of barriers.