Define Family Genograms

A family genogram maps the history of behavior.

A family genogram is a diagram that helps to map out behavioral patterns within families. A genogram is like a family tree. However, a genogram broadens on a family tree by including hereditary and psychological patterns within a family. A genogram uses symbols to represent each person within a family. Genograms can span generations, providing you with access to the fundamental understandings of your family's relationships.

Genogram Definition

According to GenoPro, a genogram is an account of a family tree which has details that include "relationships among individuals"--a family's emotional and social interaction with each other. A genogram can help you visualize why family members may behave a certain way. Developing a genogram allows you to find traits that become a pattern amongst your family, such as infidelity or divorce. In essence, a genogram is the psychological family tree.

Genogram Use

Typically the use of a genogram is done with a family therapist. Genograms can be used in conjunction with a family therapist to help you understand why you behave a certain way and how to overcome behavioral patterns. According to Genograms, the use of genograms is even being done within the medical community. Genograms used within the medical context can help your physician understand your genetic, medical, psychological and social history.

Genogram Construction

Genograms are constructed amongst families. Any relevant information is written down and diagrammed with symbols. Such information can include births, deaths, illnesses and family secrets. A history of medical conditions within your family may be noticed. Sometimes family secrets can cause dysfunction and conflict within a family. Getting to the base of such secrets can assist your family therapist in helping you understand your family's relationships. For example, family secrets can include affairs, a history of violence, or physical or sexual abuse.

Symbols

The symbols contained within a genogram can be complex, especially if a genogram spans for generations. Squares represent the men in your family, while circles represent the females. Any offspring from a couple are placed beneath the father and mother. The oldest child will be placed on the left (under the father) and any subsequent children will follow after the oldest. Any other pertinent information is included within the genogram is also included.

Family Communication

Using a genogram can help you understand the effects of family communication. Depending on what occurs in your life, certain experiences can shape how you effectively communicate with others, as well as how you establish relationships. For example, if you experience a loss within your family, this loss may shape your relationships with others. Another family member may not have the same reaction as you towards this loss. Using a genogram can help you and your family member understand why you have different responses towards death.

References

• GenoPro: Introduction to the Genogram
• Genograms: Constructing and Interpreting Interaction Patterns

Resources

• The Multicultural Family Institute: Explaining Genogram Symbols
• GenoPro: Rules to Building a Genogram