What is the primary objective of the Maintenance stage in the stage-of-change model described?

• A. Work to prevent relapse and consolidate gains
• B. Achieve initial abstinence
• C. Recognize need for change
• D. Plan for relapse

Answer: (A)

In the Maintenance stage, the focus is on sustaining the new behavior over time and turning it into a lasting part of daily life. The main objective is to prevent relapse and consolidate the gains already achieved—continuing abstinence or the healthier pattern, and strengthening coping skills to handle stress, triggers, and high-risk situations. This stage comes after the initial change has been made, so achieving abstinence is not the primary goal here—that happens in earlier stages. Recognizing the need for change occurs before, in earlier stages as well, and planning for relapse is part of relapse prevention but not the core aim of maintenance; the emphasis is on keeping the change secure and durable.