Which type of interview is characterized by the clinician tailoring questions to the individual client with no predefined set of questions?

• A. Structured Interview
• B. Semi-Structured Interview
• C. Unstructured Interview
• D. Diagnostic Interview

Answer: (C)

An unstructured interview is defined by the clinician shaping questions around the individual client, with no fixed script or predefined set of questions. This approach lets the conversation flow from the client’s unique experiences, concerns, and priorities, yielding rich, detailed narratives. Because there’s no predetermined question list, the interviewer probes based on responses and follows topics as they arise, adapting in real time. In contrast, a structured interview uses the same predetermined questions in the same order for every client, which ensures consistency but limits spontaneity. A semi-structured interview provides a flexible framework with guiding topics but still allows some deviations to explore emerging issues. Diagnostic interviews aim to systematically determine whether specific criteria for a disorder are met, typically using standardized questions; they are more prescriptive and focused on diagnosis.