Have you ever found yourself wondering why you seem to keep repeating the same thing over and over again? You know that it is something that is not impacting your life in a way that produces proverbial good fruit, and even can be a habitual thing that is harmful. My conclusion is that we will continue to repeat behaviors even when we are miserable because the discomfort of not knowing what change will be like outweighs the predictability of life in its current state. This scenario is something that is especially important to consider as caregivers and advocates when we work with survivors of human trafficking.
There is a model called “The Stages of Change” that I implemented when working intake or doing case management for a safe house. Understanding each of these stages will help you to better work with survivors in their present state, and can also help to alleviate the potential for frustration.It helped me to manage any expectations surrounding perceived progress. There are five different stages within the model. They are: Precontemplation, Contemplation, Preparation/Determination, Action/Willpower, and Maintenance.
Precontemplation is when there are no thought processes in place surrounding a desire to change. Contemplation is when the thought of change is weighed out, a sort of pro and con scenario is played out. The Preparation/Determination stage is when research has been gathered that supports the how-to in the decision to move forward with change. Action/Willpower is the point where there are proactive steps in place to bring the desired change into being. Finally, the Maintenance phase is where the change has become the new norm, and easier to avoid falling back into the old habit.
Applying the Stages of Change Model to Support Survivors
Understanding where a survivor is within the Stages of Change model allows caregivers and advocates to provide targeted, compassionate support that meets them where they are. Here’s how you can apply this model to each stage:
Precontemplation: At this stage, the survivor may not yet see the need for change. Your role is to offer support without pushing too hard. Building trust and providing a safe space for dialogue can plant the seeds for future contemplation.
Contemplation: Here, the survivor is starting to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of change. Help them explore their thoughts and feelings about change without rushing the process. Be patient and supportive as they work through their ambivalence.
Preparation/Determination: When a survivor reaches this stage, they are ready to take action but need guidance on how to proceed. Assist them in creating a concrete plan for change. This might involve setting realistic goals, identifying resources, and developing strategies to overcome potential obstacles.
Action/Willpower: The survivor is actively working towards change. Celebrate their progress and provide consistent encouragement. Be available to help them with challenges they encounter. Your support can reinforce their determination and help them stay on track.
Maintenance: The survivor is now working to sustain their changes and prevent relapse. Support them in integrating new behaviors into their daily routine. Encourage them to develop coping strategies and continue building their support network. Recognize their efforts and achievements, and be there to provide guidance if they face setbacks.
Relapse: It’s important to acknowledge that relapses can occur. If a survivor slips back into old behaviors, offer compassionate support rather than criticism. Reassure them that setbacks are a normal part of the process and encourage
Navigating the journey of change is complex and deeply personal, particularly for survivors of human trafficking who have faced numerous challenges. By understanding and applying the Stages of Change model, you can provide more effective and empathetic support. Tailoring your approach to the survivor’s current stage not only helps in managing expectations but also fosters a more supportive and collaborative environment. Remember, change is a process, and your role is to guide, support, and empower survivors as they move towards healing and growth.
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