In the Contemplation stage, individuals are:

• A. Unaware of any problem
• B. Relapsing frequently with no plan to change
• C. Actively planning to change in the near term
• D. Aware of the problem and thinking about making a change

Answer: (D)

In the stages of change model, contemplation is when a person is aware of the problem and thinking about making a change. They haven’t committed to action yet and may weigh the pros and cons, feel ambivalent, and seek information. This fits the option describing someone who is aware of the problem and considering change, without having started planning or taking steps. Being unaware of the problem corresponds to not recognizing the issue, while relapsing with no plan reflects ongoing behavior without readiness to change. Actively planning to change in the near term aligns with a preparation or planning stage, not contemplation. In practice, this is the stage where motivational approaches help resolve ambivalence and encourage moving toward small, achievable steps.