Elena's client admitted to drinking excessively at a party. Which of the following questions is most likely to have a negative impact on the client?
A)How did you feel about that?
B)What happened?
C)What would you do differently next time?
D)Why did you drink so much?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The question "why did you drink so much?" has an accusatory ring to it and can put the client on the defensive, closing down any further communication between client and clinician. "How did you feel about that?" elicits the client's feelings about her actions and is nonjudgmental, likely leading to an exploration of her feelings behind the action of drinking excessively. "What happened?" is a general question asking for clarification and the client would go on with her narrative, perhaps giving background information and leading to more discussion. "What would you do differently next time?" allows the client to see drinking excessively as a behavior she can choose or not choose and would again lead to further conversation and insight into the behavior.

Elena's Client Admitted to Drinking Excessively at a Party