In OARS, what does the O stand for and what does it encourage?

In OARS, what does the O stand for and what does it encourage?

• A. Affirmations; acknowledges the difficulties youth have experienced.
• B. Open-ended questions; encourages youth to do most of the talking.
• C. Observations; encourages noting details.
• D. Advice; provides direct instructions

Answer: (B)

Open-ended questions are the O in OARS. They invite the youth to talk more and share details, rather than giving a simple yes or no answer. This encourages them to describe their situation, feelings, and goals in their own words, helping you understand their perspective and uncover their reasons for change. By letting the youth steer the conversation with fuller responses, you gather richer information and build rapport. For example, asking, "What has been the most challenging part of school this week?" prompts more than "Are you having trouble with school?" The other parts of OARS—affirmations, reflections, and summaries—address strengths, listening to what the youth means, and tying ideas together, rather than this open-ended, talking-for-more approach.

Open-ended questions are the O in OARS. They invite the youth to talk more and share details, rather than giving a simple yes or no answer. This encourages them to describe their situation, feelings, and goals in their own words, helping you understand their perspective and uncover their reasons for change. By letting the youth steer the conversation with fuller responses, you gather richer information and build rapport. For example, asking, "What has been the most challenging part of school this week?" prompts more than "Are you having trouble with school?" The other parts of OARS—affirmations, reflections, and summaries—address strengths, listening to what the youth means, and tying ideas together, rather than this open-ended, talking-for-more approach.