Which of the following stages is characterized by a person getting ready to make changes?

The stage characterized by a person getting ready to make changes is the preparation stage. During this phase, individuals typically acknowledge that they have a problem and are actively planning to take action. They may start to set goals, identify the barriers they will face, and develop strategies for change. This stage is critical as it involves not just thinking about change, as seen in the contemplation stage, but also taking concrete steps towards making that change a reality.

At this point, individuals might begin to gather information, seek support, or even engage in small actions that align with their ultimate goal of change. The preparation stage sets the foundation for the subsequent action stage, where the individual actively engages in the behaviors or practices related to their goals. Understanding this context highlights the significance of the preparation stage in the behavioral change model.