Habits are subconscious behavior patterns that people acquire by repeating an action over and over. Research supports that it is difficult, but far from impossible, to change undesirable habits. The first step in mastering a habit is recognizing that it exists; the second step is replacing it with a more desirable habit. Being consistent and patient in one's new routine is vital to success. One study tracked people attempting to incorporate a healthy behavior, such as eating vegetables, into their daily routine. The new behavior became second nature for the participants after an average of sixty-six days.

Question

Habits are subconscious behavior patterns that people acquire by repeating an action over and over. Research supports that it is difficult, but far from impossible, to change undesirable habits. The first step in mastering a habit is recognizing that it exists; the second step is replacing it with a more desirable habit. Being consistent and patient in one's new routine is vital to success. One study tracked people attempting to incorporate a healthy behavior, such as eating vegetables, into their daily routine. The new behavior became second nature for the participants after an average of sixty-six days.

Why does the author refer to a study showing it took a group an average of sixty-six days to change a habit?

A. to help explain the step-by-step process by which people can change a habit
B. to demonstrate that a habit is a subconscious behavior pattern that a person might not even recognize
C. to emphasize that breaking a habit is a time-consuming process of behavior modification

Answer 1

C. to emphasize that breaking a habit is a time-consuming process of behavior modification

By referencing the study showing that it took an average of sixty-six days for participants to incorporate a new behavior into their routine, the author is highlighting the fact that changing a habit is not an instantaneous process and requires consistency and patience.