Individual Stage of Change

Characterization of the phase an individual is in, as he or she progresses toward skilled, enthusiastic, and sustained use of the intervention [1][2]. The specific stages used will depend on the underlying model being used in the study. Prochaska’s trans-theoretical model characterizes these stages as pre-contemplation, contemplation, preparation, and action and maintenance [3]. Rogers’ diffusion theory delineates five stages [4]. Grol et al. describe a five-stage model with ten sub-stages based on their synthesis of the literature [1].

Stage of change of individuals is an important measure of implementation progress and indicator of what kinds of engagement and educational strategies will be needed for effective implementation. The CFIR is agnostic to which of the many models of stages of change are used to assess this construct. Some aspects of stages may overlap with knowledge and beliefs, described above. Grol et al. outline 10 different taxonomies of stages and then propose their own 5-stage model, each with 2 sub-stages [1].