Answer:
a) The stages of change model is a helpful framework for designing an awareness campaign on the dangers of alcoholism for expectant mothers. The stages of change include pre-contemplation, contemplation, preparation, action, and maintenance. The campaign should begin by raising awareness among expectant mothers about the risks associated with alcohol use during pregnancy and the potential harm to the fetus. This is the pre-contemplation stage, where people are not yet considering making a change in their behavior.
Once expectant mothers become aware of the risks, the campaign should focus on the contemplation stage, where people are starting to consider making a change. This could include providing information about the benefits of avoiding alcohol during pregnancy, such as reducing the risk of fetal alcohol syndrome.
In the preparation stage, expectant mothers should be provided with resources and support to help them take action, such as counseling services, support groups, and educational materials. The action stage involves making a change and abstaining from alcohol during pregnancy, while the maintenance stage involves sustaining the behavior change over time.
b) One of the likely obstacles to implementing this program could be resistance or pushback from expectant mothers who are not yet ready to consider changing their behavior. Other challenges could include a lack of resources or support for expectant mothers who want to make a change, such as limited access to counseling services or educational materials. Additionally, some expectant mothers may have underlying substance abuse issues that require more intensive treatment.
c) As a public health officer, my role in promoting health behaviors would be to educate and inform the public about the risks associated with alcohol use during pregnancy and the importance of abstaining from alcohol during this critical period. I would work to develop partnerships with healthcare providers, community organizations, and other stakeholders to provide resources and support for expectant mothers who want to make a change. Additionally, I would work to advocate for policy changes and funding to support programs that promote healthy behaviors and reduce the risks associated with substance abuse.