When should you use open-ended questions?

Open-ended questions should be used when you want the victim or witness to express themselves freely and share all relevant information in their own words. This type of questioning invites detailed responses, allowing the individual to elaborate on their experiences, feelings, and perspectives without being confined to a simple 'yes' or 'no' answer. By encouraging open dialogue, investigators can gather rich and nuanced information that might not emerge through more direct or closed questions.

Using open-ended questions fosters a more conversational atmosphere, making it easier for victims or witnesses to provide comprehensive accounts of events. This technique is particularly valuable in investigative settings where context and emotional nuance are crucial for understanding the situation fully. In contrast, quick or direct questions might limit the depth of information obtained, which could result in missing critical details or insights.