Which type of questions lead the patient to explore his or her thoughts and feelings?

• A. Closed questions
• B. Leading questions
• C. Hypothetical questions
• D. Open ended questions

Answer: (D)

Open-ended questions invite the patient to describe their thoughts, feelings, and experiences in their own words. They require more than a simple yes or no, which encourages richer, more meaningful responses and helps the patient explore their emotions and concerns. This approach builds rapport and reveals what’s really happening inside the person, including hidden worries, coping patterns, and values. For example, asking “What was going on for you when that happened?” or “How did you feel about that situation?” prompts reflection and more detailed disclosure.

In contrast, closed questions yield brief answers, often missing depth; leading questions steer toward a desired response and can bias what the patient shares; hypothetical questions focus on imagined scenarios rather than the patient’s current emotional state.