What is a leading question characterized by?

What is a leading question characterized by?

• A. A question asked to gather general information
• B. A question designed to persuade a client
• C. A question that invites open discussion
• D. A question that promotes critical thinking

Answer: (B)

A leading question is characterized by its ability to guide or influence the respondent's answer towards a particular direction. It is specifically designed to persuade a client, often implying the desired response within the phrasing of the question itself. For example, asking "Don't you think that this treatment is the best option?" suggests that the speaker believes the treatment is indeed the best, potentially swaying the client’s perspective rather than allowing them to express an independent opinion. In contrast, questions aimed at gathering general information, inviting open discussion, or promoting critical thinking would generally be phrased in a neutral manner, encouraging more free and unbiased responses from clients. These types of questions are used to facilitate understanding and exploration, rather than to lead the client toward a predetermined conclusion.

A leading question is characterized by its ability to guide or influence the respondent's answer towards a particular direction. It is specifically designed to persuade a client, often implying the desired response within the phrasing of the question itself. For example, asking "Don't you think that this treatment is the best option?" suggests that the speaker believes the treatment is indeed the best, potentially swaying the client’s perspective rather than allowing them to express an independent opinion.

In contrast, questions aimed at gathering general information, inviting open discussion, or promoting critical thinking would generally be phrased in a neutral manner, encouraging more free and unbiased responses from clients. These types of questions are used to facilitate understanding and exploration, rather than to lead the client toward a predetermined conclusion.