Why are closed questions useful in crisis intervention?

Closed questions are particularly useful in crisis intervention because they facilitate a targeted exploration of specific issues. By requiring a limited range of responses—often a simple "yes" or "no" or a brief, direct answer—these questions help the crisis intervener to quickly gather pertinent information about the client's situation. This focused approach allows for identifying immediate concerns, understanding the crises better, and addressing the most critical elements that may need intervention.

In high-stress situations, clients may struggle to articulate their feelings or thoughts comprehensively. Closed questions can streamline the communication process, guiding the conversation in a way that draws out essential details without overwhelming the individual with too many open-ended prompts. This helps ensure that the crisis worker can assess the situation effectively and prioritize interventions based on the clear information received.