According to the transtheoretical model of behavior change, what stage is a patient in if they plan to start eating a healthier diet in the next 30 days?

In the transtheoretical model of behavior change, the stage where an individual plans to start a new behavior, such as eating a healthier diet, within a specific timeframe—in this case, in the next 30 days—is referred to as the Preparation stage. At this point, the individual is not only aware of the need for change but is actively making plans and taking small steps towards that change. This preparation involves setting specific goals, gathering resources, or developing a precise action plan to initiate the behavior change.

In the context of the stages, this stage is crucial as it bridges the gap between thinking about change and actually implementing it. It indicates a commitment to making that change and sets the foundation for moving into the Action stage, where active steps toward behavioral change begin to take place. Individuals in the Preparation stage are often characterized by their motivation and readiness to take concrete actions shortly.