Pros And Cons Of Closed Questioning

Unit 2 Interactive Assessment

1. What are the pros and cons to open questioning? Closed questioning?

The advantages and disadvantages of using either open questioning or closed questioning are numerous. However, the most important thing to remember is to use questioning appropriately. Improper or insincere questioning of either kind can lead to the client feeling like they are on trial; consequently placing them on the defensive. Or worse yet, ending the session and never returning (Ivey, Ivey, & Zalaquett, 2014, p.120).

Beginning with the advantages of open questionings we see that they promote an environment of free expression which often leads to more creative talking accompanied by a fullness of detail (Ivey, Ivey, & Zalaquett, 2014, pp. 118-119). Moreover, open questions are an excellent way to even the power balance between client and counselor by sharing control of the conversation (p 119). Because the client is encouraged to speak freely, the counselor can better view their reasoning abilities and thought process. Moving to the disadvantages of open questioning we find that they can be very time

119). This can be beneficial when pressed for time and for clients who have trouble expressing themselves. Another advantage is the possibility of minimizing ambiguity due to the exactness of both question and answer (p. 118). For clients who have problems expressing themselves open questions can boost their self-esteem by being able to provide information. One major disadvantage of closed questioning is that the client may misinterpret or misperceive the question but provide an answer anyways (p. 123). Furthermore, they can be viewed as leading making the client feel as if they are being cross-examined (p. 125). Additionally, the question may be multifaceted but will only produce a one-dimensional