What characterizes Stage 1 of the Community Readiness Model?

Stage 1 of the Community Readiness Model is characterized by the community's tolerance or lack of knowledge about a problem. At this initial stage, community members may not be fully aware of the issues affecting them or may consider them as non-critical. This lack of recognition or understanding leads to a general indifference or acceptance of the problem rather than an active engagement with it. This stage is crucial because it sets the foundation for future awareness and action. For effective community mobilization and prevention strategies to occur, it's essential to first address this stage by increasing awareness and knowledge about the problem to encourage subsequent stages of readiness and engagement in solutions.