Which of the following is an example of an open-ended question?

An open-ended question is designed to encourage a full, meaningful answer rather than a simple one-word or short response. The chosen response, which inquires about the relevance of July 4th as a quit date, prompts the individual to elaborate on their personal thoughts, feelings, and motivations surrounding the significance of that date for them. This type of question allows the respondent to provide insights that can be deeper and more reflective, fostering a discussion that can uncover important contextual factors that may affect their tobacco cessation journey.

In contrast, the other options tend to lead to more straightforward, limited answers. For instance, asking if someone has previously attempted to stop using tobacco typically results in a yes or no, while inquiring about nicotine replacement therapy seeks a simple affirmation or denial regarding the respondent’s plans. Similarly, asking if they plan to be tobacco-free by July 4th also invites a brief response rather than an explanation of their journey or thought process. The selected question is vital in understanding the individual’s motivations and feelings, which is crucial in supportive conversations around tobacco cessation.