The transtheoretical model as a framework for developing substance abuse interventions

The Transtheoretical Model (TTM; Prochaska & DiClemente, 1984) suggests that one of the major challenges in substance abuse treatment is to creatively adapt to the complexities of change, (e.g., shifting motivation and ambivalence) using an array of change processes dependent upon treatment readiness. The TTM offers a solid theoretical foundation upon which innovative substance abuse treatments can be developed and the major dimensions of this model (stages of change, processes of change, decisional balance, and self-efficacy) have proven to be important constructs in understanding and facilitating the process of intentional behavior change. We describe several recently developed substance abuse treatment programs based on the TTM constructs and describe the measures used to assess change in the various studies. We also highlight how counseling strategies, such as motivational interviewing, can be incorporated into TTM-based treatments.