Open and closed questions are often confused

Editor—It is a pity that the first article in the ABC of mental health misleads readers on a fundamental matter, which may well be at the root of misunderstanding between workers in mental health, to the detriment of patients' care. One of the first lessons in courses on communication skills is how to distinguish open from closed questions. Open questions usually begin with “how,” “what,” “when,” “where,” “who,” “which,” and “why” (though “why” can sound threatening and should be used sparingly). Closed questions invite yes/no answers or short factual replies (for instance, “What is your date of birth?”). They can seem like an interrogation.

Teifion Davies wisely advises that open questions …