What is a sign that a client is in the Contemplation stage?

In the Contemplation stage, a key sign is that the client recognizes the need for change. This stage is characterized by awareness and consideration of the desire to change, but the client has not yet committed to taking action. They may be weighing the pros and cons of modifying their behavior and are often ambivalent about making changes. This self-awareness and acknowledgment of the necessity to change are fundamental to this stage, as it sets the groundwork for progressing to the next stage, where they might begin planning and preparing to take actionable steps.

The other options represent behaviors associated with more advanced stages of change; for instance, actively changing behaviors and publicly committing to goals indicate movement towards action, while abandoning all old behaviors signifies a maintenance phase where new habits have been successfully established. Recognizing the need for change is a thoughtful and reflective process typical of the Contemplation stage, making it the correct choice.