Smoking cessation: two pilot studies exploring the use of continuous response format algorithm to identify subgroups within stage.

Stage of change is typically assessed with a series of yes or no questions, a categorical response format staging algorithm. We revised that algorithm by using, instead, the same questions with 7-point agreement scales covering the first three stages with a sample of smokers. Participants were 141 persons enrolled in introductory psychology classes at the University of Louisville during the fall and spring semesters of 1994. Our continuous response format scores showed expected correlations with modified decisional balance scale scores. In addition, the continuous response format algorithm identified substantial differences in intention to quit sometime and in the next 30 days among participants classified as precontemplators by the categorical system. Analyses from an additional small sample (N = 56) demonstrated relationships between the continuous response format scores and Processes of Change as well as Decisional Balance Scale scores within categorical stages. Subgroups of smokers within stages differ on their attitudes toward changing and on the change strategies they are using. These subgroups can be identified with the continuous response format algorithm.