During which stage of change does a person believe they can manage and prepare for change?

The stage of change in which an individual believes they can manage and prepare for change is known as the Preparation/Determination stage. At this point, individuals are not only aware of the need to change but are also actively planning and strategizing how to implement that change in their lives. They begin to take steps towards their goal, such as gathering resources and setting up plans that will facilitate their transition. This proactive approach signifies a readiness to act and indicates that they are preparing themselves mentally and logistically for the changes ahead.

In contrast, the Pre-Contemplation stage is characterized by a lack of awareness or denial about the need for change. During the Contemplation stage, individuals begin to think about change but may still feel ambivalent and unsure. The Action stage represents the phase where individuals are actively making changes and implementing their plans, but it follows the preparation stage. These distinctions highlight why the correct answer is specifically the Preparation/Determination stage, where the focus is on readiness and planning.