DOING THE RIGHT THING AT THE RIGHT TIME - THE INTERACTION OF STAGES AND PROCESSES OF CHANGE IN SUCCESSFUL SMOKING CESSATION

Research on the transtheoretical model has provided substantial suppor t for both stages of change and processes of change (coping strategies influencing successful behavior change). This study examined whether timing of process use (using particular change processes during one st age and not during others) influences quit success. Hypothesized patte rns of optimal process use were those marked by more use of experienti al processes and less use of behavioral processes during contemplation and preparation and by the reverse pattern during action. participant s (N = 388) began in contemplation or preparation and took action duri ng a 4-6 week period. Multivariate analyses of covariance examined the relationship between patterns of process use and success in staying q uit both at 1-month follow-up and 5-6 months later. For the most part, results supported the hypothesis that successful stage transitions in volve doing the right thing at the right time: engaging in experientia l process activities during contemplation and preparation stages and s hifting to behavioral process activities during action.