Thus, the best many patients can hope for is a reduction in the intensity of pain. This awareness alone can cause frustration and reduce motivation to change behaviors. Researchers have identified six stages we move through when changing from maladaptive to adaptive behaviors. The first stage is precontemplation. In this stage we do not believe we need to change and often show resistance to suggestions for change.
Contemplation is the next stage.
We see the need for making a change and make some plan to do it in the future. However, we have not committed to start. Preparation is next. In this stage, we intend to change and begin the initial steps to make the change. In the action stage, we are actively involved in behavior changes.