What is the purpose of using closed-ended questions with clients?

Using closed-ended questions serves the primary purpose of eliciting specific information from clients. These questions are typically structured to require a concise, often one-word or limited-response answer, such as "yes" or "no." This format is particularly useful when the clinician needs to gather clear and direct responses that can guide the assessment or intervention process.

By asking closed-ended questions, social workers can efficiently obtain crucial data about the client’s situation, preferences, and feelings, which are essential for understanding their needs. This specificity aids in the development of concrete treatment plans and helps in evaluating progress over time.

While closed-ended questions can limit the depth of conversation (which is why open-ended questions are also valuable in practice), they are vital when the intention is to clarify facts or gather straightforward information that might not require extensive discussion. In the context of social work, using these types of questions strategically can lead to more effective engagement and solutions tailored to the client’s situation.