x Precontemplation
For Precontemplators smoking is not seen as a problem. Despite all of the publicity surrounding the harmful effects of smoking individuals in the precontemplation stage still do not see their smoking as a personal problem. However, family, friends or your doctor consider smoking as a problem and press for you to quit smoking. Despite their urging you are not planning to quit smoking. Smoker's in this stage often benefit from individual coaching to move on to the contemplation phase.
Attitudes of Precontemplators include:
I have tried everything and it has not worked.
I do not have enough will power.
They feel hopeless when faced with their dependency on nicotine.
They continue to smoke even though 90% of smokers surveyed would like to stop
Prochaska and his colleagues suggest that Precontemplators ask themselves the following questions.
Do you discuss my smoking behavior with my friends?
Most Precontemplators either deny their problems or are too defensive to discuss the issue with friends.
Have you exposed yourself to information on the dangers of smoking?
Most Precontemplators hide from finding out what the real risks of smoking are. Do you know that a 40 year old man who has been smoking from adolescence will add 7 years to his life if he stops smoking.
Will you accept the responsibility for dying early and all of the complications and difficulties that many smokers experience as their addiction takes its toll on the body?
Fully 30 percent of all cancers are smoking related as is 20 percent of cardiovascular disease. If you are unwilling to take responsibility you are a Precontemplator.
T To move forward most Precontemplators need additional information on the harmful effects of smoking. You will need to understand the extent of the addictive powers of nicotine and you will need to raise questions and doubts about your smoking behavior. QuitTools Coach for Precontemplators will assist you. Remember it is only for smokers who do not plan to quit.
