As it is an instrument based on open-ended questions, it always depends on the willingness and ability of the interviewees to elaborate, and whether all questions are covered. The complete LISMEN may require between one hour and one and a half hours. For example, if administered to a family with a 4-year-old child, it can be completed in half an hour by using only the questions from the first two age ranges.

It also depends on the professional’s available time, as there are families where a question about, for example, whether a girl sleeps with her parents, can lead to comments and discussions that extend beyond the specific fact, touching upon bonds and fears.