What is an evidence-based approach to interviewing adolescents about sensitive topics that supports truthful responses?

• A. Group interviews with parents present.
• B. Private one-on-one time, establish confidentiality within legal limits, open-ended questions, and rapport building.
• C. Closed yes/no questions only.
• D. Interviews conducted without any confidentiality considerations.

Answer: (B)

An evidence-based approach to interviewing adolescents about sensitive topics centers on privacy, trust, and eliciting detailed, voluntary information. Conducting the interview in private one-on-one time helps the adolescent feel in control and less influenced by peers or family members, which reduces fear of judgment or consequences. Establishing confidentiality within legal limits is crucial: it sets clear expectations about what information will be kept confidential and what must be shared for safety or legal reasons, which builds trust and encourages truthful disclosure.

Open-ended questions are essential because they invite the adolescent to describe experiences in their own words, provide context, and reveal nuances that yes/no questions miss. This approach also reduces the risk of leading responses and allows for richer data about frequency, context, emotions, and consequences. Building rapport—being nonjudgmental, patient, and respectful—further increases comfort and honesty, especially when discussing topics that may feel embarrassing or risky.

Options that place the interview in a group setting with parents present can inhibit openness due to fear of repercussions or stigma, leading to guarded or incomplete answers. Closed yes/no questions limit depth and fail to capture the complexities of the adolescent’s experiences. Conducting interviews without any confidentiality considerations undermines trust and makes adolescents less likely to disclose sensitive information truthfully. The combination of private time, clear confidentiality (within legal limits), open-ended questions, and rapport building best supports truthful responses.