Which stage of the Transtheoretical Model involves actively implementing changes?

The stage of the Transtheoretical Model that involves actively implementing changes is the Action stage. In this phase, individuals engage in overt behaviors meant to change their health-related habits. This may involve adopting new health practices, such as exercising regularly, improving diet, or adhering to prescribed medical treatments. It's characterized by visible modifications in behavior that signify a commitment to the change process.

The Action stage is crucial because it represents the transitional moment where intention and planning from earlier stages—like Preparation—are put into practice. This active involvement is what differentiates it from stages like Contemplation and Preparation, where individuals may be thinking about and planning for change but are not yet engaged in the actual behavior modifications. Understanding this distinction helps in identifying the stage of readiness a person is in when it comes to health behavior change.