Section 1: Behavior & Behavior Change

III. Changing Criminal Behaviors

People go through various stages when changing behavior, whether it is the desire to stop smoking or to lose weight. Being aware of where an offender is in the stage of change will enable staff to determine what kind of help is needed.

  • Pre-contemplation -does not see that a problem exists

  • Contemplation -ambivalent towards change

  • Determination -ready to change

  • Action -active participation in modifying behavior

  • Maintenance -continuing to persevere, address issues

  • Relapse -falling back into old behavior