What describes individuals in the contemplation stage of change?

Individuals in the contemplation stage of change are characterized by recognizing that they have a problem and understanding the need for change, yet they are not yet ready to take action. They are actively thinking about the pros and cons of their current behavior and considering making a change, which indicates a level of awareness and contemplation about their situation. This stage serves as a critical turning point where individuals weigh their options and may start gathering information, but they have not made a commitment to proceed with any actions toward change. Understanding this distinction helps in providing appropriate support and motivation to encourage movement into the next stage of change.