During which stage of change do clients recognize that they have a problem?

The stage of change where clients recognize that they have a problem is the Precontemplation stage. In this initial phase, individuals may be unaware of the severity of their issues or might not even see them as problems at all. However, as they engage in conversations about their behaviors, they may begin to acknowledge that there is a need for change.

This recognition is crucial for progress toward recovery, as it lays the foundation for moving into the next stages of change. In the Precontemplation stage, individuals might receive feedback from others, such as family or friends, which can help them realize that their behavior is problematic. Once they become aware of their issue, they can start considering their options for change, leading them toward the Contemplation stage, where they will start thinking more seriously about making changes.

In contrast, the other stages examine different aspects of the change process. Preparation involves planning and preparing to take steps toward change, while Action refers to actively making changes in behavior. Contemplation falls between these stages, where clients think about the consequences of their behavior but haven't yet committed to taking action.