What is the goal of using a leading question in a discussion?

What is the goal of using a leading question in a discussion?

• A. To encourage independent thinking.
• B. To steer the respondent toward a desired answer.
• C. To clarify misunderstanding.
• D. To gather more comprehensive information.

Answer: (B)

Using a leading question in a discussion is effective because it guides the respondent toward a specific answer that aligns with the questioner's intent. This approach often implies a preferred response, making it easier for the respondent to agree or align with the questioner's perspective. For example, asking "Don't you think that our current strategy is the best?" suggests an expectation of agreement, subtly influencing the direction of the conversation and framing the discussion in a way that favors a particular viewpoint. In scenarios where someone's objective is to advocate for a specific position or outcome, leading questions can be a strategic tool to shape opinions and reinforce narrative. This contrasts with approaches that aim for independent thinking or comprehensive information gathering, which would typically use more open-ended or neutral questions to allow for diverse responses.

Using a leading question in a discussion is effective because it guides the respondent toward a specific answer that aligns with the questioner's intent. This approach often implies a preferred response, making it easier for the respondent to agree or align with the questioner's perspective. For example, asking "Don't you think that our current strategy is the best?" suggests an expectation of agreement, subtly influencing the direction of the conversation and framing the discussion in a way that favors a particular viewpoint.

In scenarios where someone's objective is to advocate for a specific position or outcome, leading questions can be a strategic tool to shape opinions and reinforce narrative. This contrasts with approaches that aim for independent thinking or comprehensive information gathering, which would typically use more open-ended or neutral questions to allow for diverse responses.