The Transtheoretical Model of Change Applied to Developing Suicidal Behavior

The Transtheoretical Model of Change (TMC) is investigated as a tool for explaining & diagnosing suicidal behavior. In a sample of 42 hospitalized suicide ideators & attempters, it was found that most patients had progressed through the stages of change as predicted by the TMC, & that ten change processes (psychological states or experiences) defined by the TMC, were used systematically in association with specific stages of change. The authors conclude that the TMC holds promise as a tool for understanding suicidal behaviour & for designing appropriate interventions. (20 refs)