Testing the transtheoretical model for smoking change: Victorian data

Abstract

The transtheoretical model (TTM) is an important theory of behaviour change, and one that has been applied extensively to smoking cessation. This paper explores the internal validity of the model by exploring relationships between key TTM variables across four of its proposed stages of change. It utilises a community sample of 304 smokers and recent quitters. Respondents were administered the short‐form of the TTM inventory, which included measures of stage of change, pros and cons of smoking, 3 temptation subscales, and the 10 processes of change scales. The results generally replicate earlier findings and extend them by demonstrating predicted declines in the processes of consciousness raising and self re‐evaluation from preparation to action. The results indicate problems with (at least) the measurement of social liberation, dramatic relief, and helping relationships, and validate changes to item wording introduced for consciousness raising and reinforcement management. It is concluded that, with some minor item‐wording changes, most TTM constructs behave as originally conceived or prescribed by the model in the Australian context and, where they do not, similar problems have been identified in other countries.