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Behavioral Stages

Copper Canyon Academy has adopted the Stages of Change model developed by James Prochaska and Carlo DiClemente at the University of Rhode Island. This model has been applied to a broad range of problem behaviors including smoking, overweight/obesity, and alcohol and drug abuse. It is a highly effective, evidence-based model for any problem behavior that your daughter brings to Copper Canyon.

The Stages of Change model illustrates that behavioral change is not a smooth process. Rather, a progression through different stages occurs before lasting change is accomplished. Each student will progress through the stages at her own pace.

Each student must decide for herself when a stage is completed and when it is time to move on to the next stage. This decision must come from the inside. At Copper Canyon Academy, your daughter will be in the process of developing what is known as an “internal locus of control.” This is a necessity, as long-term change cannot be externally imposed.

The Stages of Change are:

• Precontemplation – not ready to change
• Contemplation – thinking of changing
• Preparation – getting ready to change
• Action – making changes
• Maintenance – staying the course and maintaining changes
• Relapse – regressing to previous stages