What does the 'stages of change' model describe?

The 'stages of change' model describes the process individuals go through when modifying their behavior, particularly in the context of recovery from addiction or making significant lifestyle changes. This model outlines distinct phases that a person typically experiences, which include precontemplation, contemplation, preparation, action, maintenance, and sometimes relapse.

By recognizing these stages, coaches can better understand where a client is in their journey and tailor their support and interventions accordingly. The emphasis is on aiding clients as they progress through these stages, fostering self-efficacy and motivation to change. This understanding is crucial for peer recovery coaches as they assist clients in overcoming obstacles and celebrating successes within this dynamic process.

The other choices do not adequately capture the essence of the model. For example, a linear progression towards relapse simplifies the complexities of human behavior and suggests a one-way path rather than acknowledging the cyclical nature of change. A timeline for client recovery is also too rigid, as recovery does not happen on a fixed schedule and is highly individualized. Lastly, while evaluation methods for coaches can be essential, they do not describe the 'stages of change' model itself but rather pertain to performance assessment in coaching.