Which stage in the change process follows Preparation with plan?

The correct answer is Action. In the stages of change model, the Action stage directly follows the Preparation stage. During the Preparation stage, individuals start to develop a plan and may take small initial steps toward change, but it is in the Action stage where they actively implement that plan and make significant changes in their behavior.

This is a critical phase where the individual engages in specific activities aimed at creating positive change. For a probation officer, recognizing when a client has entered the Action stage is vital, as it indicates they are actively working on the behaviors necessary to improve their situation, which may include attending counseling, finding employment, or engaging in community services.

The other stages listed, like Pre-contemplation, Maintenance, and Termination, serve different purposes in the change process and occur at different times. Pre-contemplation involves no intention of changing, Maintenance focuses on sustaining new behaviors after significant changes have been made, and Termination represents the point where an individual has fully integrated the new behaviors into their lifestyle and no longer needs to actively work on them. Understanding these distinctions clarifies why Action follows Preparation as the next step in the change process.