Final answer:
The best example of an open-ended question is 'C. What are some of the challenges faced in your weight loss journey?' as it allows for a detailed narrative response, which is key to gathering qualitative data about personal experiences and perspectives.
Step-by-step explanation:
The best example of an open-ended question from the provided options would be C. What are some of the challenges faced in your weight loss journey? This is because open-ended questions are designed to elicit more detailed and expansive responses, allowing the respondent to share personal experiences, beliefs, or insights in a narrative form. This type of question does not restrict the respondent to a 'yes' or 'no' answer or a choice between options, but rather encourages them to explain and elaborate on their thoughts and feelings.
In comparison, the other options provided are not as effective in collecting qualitative data. For instance:
- A. Why would you want to follow that meal plan? - Although this appears open-ended, it could be interpreted as leading or judgmental depending on tone.
- B. Do you use skim milk or whole milk? - This is a closed question that suggests a binary choice.
- D. Do you feel positive or negative about your weight loss goal? - This question prompts for a binary emotional response, not an open narrative.
Open-ended questions like option C are valuable in research and questionnaires because they allow individuals to provide qualitative data, which, though more difficult to organize, offer a richer understanding of the participant's perspective and experiences. These questions are essential for exploring the complexities of personal attitudes and behaviors in health and various other fields.