Open Ended Questions
Quality of O-E-Q:
Open ended questions should normally adhere to the following criteria:
only one question or one focus at a time
clear (not vague) questions that the patient is capable of answering
Use a non-judgmental style, to avoid the questions feeling like an interrogation.
Types of O-E-Q:
There are different types of open ended questions. For example, questions could aim to gather information, or deepen emotions, or take a new perspective on things. Try to practice different types of questions, in order to maximize the utility of this fundamental verbal intervention. Feel free to ask for specific clinical examples, or for more or less challenging client statements.
(first time?? read the ‘how to get the best out of practice’!)
