Which stage in the TTM represents the individual who is actively planning to change within the next month?

The stage in the Transtheoretical Model (TTM) that represents the individual who is actively planning to change within the next month is indeed the Preparation stage. In this phase, individuals are not only aware of the need for change but are actively making plans to do so. They may be gathering resources, setting specific goals, and may even begin taking small steps toward their intended behavior change.

During Preparation, individuals typically exhibit motivation and readiness for change. They understand that their current behavior is not meeting their goals or desires and are committed to making a change in the near future. This contrasts with the earlier stages, such as Contemplation, where individuals may recognize the need for change but haven't yet made concrete plans. The Action stage follows Preparation, where individuals are actively implementing their planned changes. Meanwhile, the Maintenance stage involves sustaining those changes over time to avoid relapse.

By identifying the Preparation stage as the answer, it highlights an important aspect of behavior change—the transition from thinking about change to intending to act on it in the immediate future.