Table 1 Transtheoretical model’s constructs
Constructs | Definitions |
|---|---|
Stages of change | |
 Precontemplation | Not intending to initiate a program of effective stress management in the next six months |
 Contemplation | Intending to initiate a program of effective stress management in the next six months |
 Preparation | Intending to initiate a program of effective stress management in the next 30 days |
 Action | Practicing a program of effective stress management for less than six months |
 Maintenance | Practicing a program of effective stress management for six months or longer |
Experiential processes of change | |
 Consciousness-raising | Increasing awareness about managing stress |
 Dramatic relief | Reacting emotionally to warnings about the consequences of not managing stress |
 Environmental re-evaluation | Considering how the practice or lack of stress management impacts others |
 Self-re-evaluation | Realizing that managing stress can enhance one’s self-identity |
 Social liberation | Acknowledging how society is changing to encourage the practice of stress management |
Behavioral processes of change | |
 Self-liberation | Committing to engaging in managing stress |
 Stimulus control | Restructuring one’s environment to facilitate the process of stress management |
 Counter-conditioning | Substituting new and positive behavioral choices in the process of managing stress |
 Helping relationships | Listing and utilizing support resources for managing stress |
 Reinforcement management | Using positive reinforcement and rewards for undertaking the process of stress management |
Pros | The advantages of effective stress management |
Cons | The disadvantages of effective stress management |
Self-efficacy | The confidence that the individual can engage in effective stress management processes despite any barriers to that process |