ABSTRACT
INTRODUCTION Th e Transtheoretical Model of intentional behaviour change (TTM) off ers a framework for understanding important dimensions of intentional behaviour change rather than a well-defi ned or manually driven therapy.1-3 Its utility lies in the fact that the dimensions described in the model (i.e. the stages, processes, context and markers of change) off er concepts and a structure for understanding critical elements of the process of behaviour change that seem relevant for both self-guided/ natural change1,4 and treatment-supported behaviour change.5,6 Th e TTM involves a learning perspective of intention and self-regulation and assumes that the individual has to choose which change to make and learn how to manage the change and to sustain change by incorporating the change into one’s life. Th e model is integrative since it incorporates elements and constructs from various theories of therapy, learning and behaviour change, hence the name ‘Transtheoretical’. However, the model is not a comprehensive theory and simply tries to identify and describe important elements of the process of intentional behaviour change.
