What is the primary purpose of using open-ended questions in interviews?

Open-ended questions are designed to encourage detailed and expansive responses from interviewees, allowing them to express their thoughts, feelings, and experiences in their own words. This approach is particularly useful in detective practice as it helps elicit more comprehensive information, facilitating a deeper understanding of the interviewee's perspective. By prompting individuals to elaborate rather than simply provide yes or no answers, open-ended questions can uncover important details that may not have been previously considered or that might lead to further investigation avenues.

Additionally, this method helps build rapport between the interviewer and the interviewee, as individuals may feel more valued and understood when given the opportunity to share their narrative. Such freedom in responses often reveals critical insights, aiding in the gathering of evidence or clarifying inconsistent statements.