“Directive” vs “Nondirective.”

According to the First Interview, there are two types of interviewing styles “Directive” and “Nondirective.” A “directive” interviewer will ask specific information, a question, which requires the client to give a specific answer or to follow a structure that the interviewer intends to follow. So, the interviewer will guide and direct the interview. A “nondirective” interviewer will allow the client to choose what is being spoken about. This allows the client to feel like they are in charge: deepening the rapport. This type of interview can lead to less background information or information that might be touchy, so it is important for the interviewer to use both approaches. The “nondirective” approach can also lead to useless information that will not benefit either parties (p.16). The interviewer is there to provide a service, help the client, so using only one or the other of the interviewing styles is not beneficial.

An interviewer could use the “directive” style when asking for background information and during the information gathering stage (intake, first session). However, after that information is gathered it would be a good idea to switch to the “nondirective” interviewing style. The interviewer could ask the client, “Why are you here or what brings you here?” Then, it would be a good idea to discuss goals, expectations, and what will happen during treatment.

The interviewer needs to change the interview style based on the information that they wish to attain.  For example, an interviewer could ask the client –

When were you assaulted (directive style)? A specific day, date, or time will be given.

Then, they could ask the client –

            Could you explain what happened (nondirective)? This allows the client to talk about whatever is relevant to them and it gives the interviewer a chance to see what issues need to be address first, because not all clients will react in the same way, in the same order. 

 

References

 

Morrison, J., (2008). The First Interview. (3^rd Ed.). New York, NY: Guilford Press.