If they really draw a blank, you can help them in a non-leading way by suggesting a wide range of alternative responses. When you ask about sensitive or stigmatized behaviors, people are often reluctant to answer you. Body language . Don't cross your arms, doodle on your interview form, or check the time repeatedly. Those behaviors will signal that you are not interested in what the participant has to say and may decrease the amount of information you are able to obtain.
Silence can also be important.
Some interviewers feel uncomfortable when participants don't say anything. However, the participants may simply be composing their answers. Give them time. If you interrupt them, you may miss a thoughtful response. Don't insist on an answer if the participant seems uncomfortable .