What is the purpose of using open-ended questions in a brief intervention?

• A. To deliver a fixed plan
• B. To explore ambivalence and goals
• C. To assess readiness with yes/no questions
• D. To enforce behavior change

Answer: (B)

Open-ended questions in a brief intervention are used to invite detailed, personal responses that reveal what the person is thinking and feeling about change. By asking questions that can’t be answered with a simple yes or no, you give the individual space to express ambivalence, concerns, values, and what they hope to achieve. This helps you understand their motivations, barriers, and goals, so you can tailor support that fits them and builds toward change they’re likely to pursue.

For example, instead of asking if they’re ready to quit, you might ask what worries they have about their current behavior and what changes they’d like to see in their life. The information gathered through open-ended questions supports a collaborative plan and respects the person’s autonomy.

Other approaches push a fixed plan, rely on yes/no questions to gauge readiness, or aim to enforce change, which can miss underlying ambivalence and fail to align with the client’s own goals. Open-ended questions keep the conversation patient-centered and focused on meaningful, personalized change.