According to the Transtheoretical Model, how long must behavior be maintained to reach the maintenance phase?

The Transtheoretical Model, also known as the Stages of Change model, identifies several stages individuals go through when changing behavior. The maintenance phase is specifically characterized by the successful continuation of the new behavior after it has been established.

To transition into the maintenance phase, a behavior is generally considered to have been maintained for a duration of greater than six months. This period indicates not only that the individual has adopted the new behavior but has also successfully integrated it into their lifestyle as a consistent practice. The emphasis on this extended duration is crucial because it reflects a significant commitment to sustaining change, minimizing the likelihood of relapse, and demonstrating that the behavior has become a habitual part of the individual's life.

In contrast, shorter timeframes, such as those indicated in the other options, do not meet the criteria established by the model for true maintenance. A period of less than three months is often regarded as the action stage, where the individual is actively working to implement the change but has not yet reached the stability and consistency that characterize maintenance. Similarly, one month or just 30 days does not provide enough duration to signify that a new behavior has become established. Thus, the requirement of maintaining a behavior for greater than six months correctly aligns with the principles of the Tr