What is the definition of an open-ended question?

An open-ended question is one that invites the respondent to elaborate on their thoughts and feelings, allowing them to respond in their own words without restrictions. This type of questioning is particularly valuable in situations where understanding context, personal perspectives, and detailed information is essential, such as in interviews with victims or witnesses in law enforcement.

By allowing for unlimited responses, these questions can yield rich, qualitative data that can provide deeper insights into a person's experiences or views. This open format contrasts significantly with other types of questions, such as those that lead to specific answers (like yes/no questions) or those that limit the respondent's options. In the context of investigations or interviews, using open-ended questions encourages individuals to share their narrative in a comprehensive and unfiltered manner, which is vital for gathering thorough and accurate information.