The Transtheoretical model is currently conceptualized in terms of several major dimensions. The core constructs, around which the other dimensions are organized, is the stages of change. These represent ordered categories along a continuum of motivational readiness to change a problem behavior. Transitions between the stages of change are effected by a set of independent variables known as the processes of change. The model also incorporates a series of intervening or outcome variables. These include decisional balance (the pros and cons of change), self-efficacy (confidence in the ability to change across problem situations), situational temptations to engage in the problem behavior, and behaviors which are specific to the problem area. Also included among these intermediate or dependent variables would be any other psychological, environmental, cultural, socioeconomic, physiological, biochemical, or even genetic variables or behavior specific to the problem being studied.
