At which stage of change are self-efficacy levels generally the highest?

In the context of the stages of change model, self-efficacy levels are highest during the maintenance stage. This stage represents a period where individuals have successfully sustained their behavior change for an extended duration (typically six months or more) and have developed confidence in their ability to maintain these changes.

During maintenance, individuals are not only accustomed to their new behaviors but have also had experiences that reinforce their ability to continue these behaviors long-term. They are better equipped to handle challenges and temptations that may arise since they have already transitioned through the earlier stages, such as contemplation and action, where self-efficacy is generally lower.

For the other stages, although there may be growing confidence in the preparation and action stages, individuals are still facing the initial struggles and uncertainties associated with making significant lifestyle changes. This ongoing process of adjustment can lead to variability in self-efficacy levels, which is more stable and robust in the maintenance stage.