What is the maintenance stage of change primarily characterized by?

The maintenance stage of change is primarily characterized by the process of incorporating new behaviors over time, demonstrating a commitment to sustaining positive changes. In this stage, individuals have typically already made a significant change and are now focused on maintaining these alterations in their lifestyle. They actively practice the new behaviors in various aspects of their lives, reinforcing the changes they have made and countering any relapse tendencies.

This stage emphasizes the persistence needed to ensure that the positive changes are not only adopted but also sustained over time, making it a critical phase in the behavior change model. The focus is on integrating these new behaviors as a permanent part of one's daily routine, which enhances the likelihood of long-term success and well-being.