What is the benefit of using open-ended questions during an interview?

Using open-ended questions during an interview is beneficial because they encourage the interviewee to provide detailed and expansive answers. This type of questioning allows the interviewee to elaborate on their thoughts, experiences, and feelings, rather than being confined to a simple 'yes' or 'no' response. Open-ended questions facilitate a deeper dialogue and can help in establishing rapport, as they allow the interviewee the freedom to express themselves more fully.

When interviews are designed to gather in-depth information, open-ended questions become essential, as they can uncover nuances and insights that closed questions might miss. This approach not only aids in gathering comprehensive data but also enables the interviewer to explore topics further based on the directions the interviewee takes, leading to a richer understanding of the subject matter at hand. As a result, open-ended questions are a vital tool in forensic interviewing, as they support the interviewer's goal of obtaining clear and thorough information.