What does the term “open-ended question” mean in motivational interviewing?

In motivational interviewing, the term "open-ended question" refers to a type of inquiry that encourages individuals to provide more extensive responses, allowing for deeper elaboration and discussion. This kind of question is designed to engage the individual in a dialogue, enabling them to express their thoughts, feelings, and experiences without being confined to simple responses like "yes" or "no."

Open-ended questions help to foster a supportive and exploratory environment, which is essential for understanding an individual’s motivations, values, and barriers. By prompting elaboration, these questions facilitate the development of a therapeutic relationship and encourage individuals to explore their goals and motivations in greater depth, which is a fundamental aspect of motivational interviewing. This approach can lead to more meaningful discussions and can ultimately contribute to the individual's commitment to change.

In contrast, questions that lead to a yes or no answer limit the depth of the conversation. Questions that test knowledge or focus on personal opinions may not engage the individual as effectively in self-reflection or exploration of their motivations and concerns, which is the primary goal of motivational interviewing.