Genogram Explanation
A genogram is a graphical representation of a family tree. It allows users to analyze emotional, social, hereditary, and behavioral patterns and trends in families through the use of symbols, colors, and lines.
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Uses
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Family therapists often use genograms to reveal patterns of behavior in their clients' families. This helps clients understand where they may have inherited certain behavioral traits, or may explain psychological issues.
Symbols
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Females are represented by circles while males are denoted by squares. Parents are graphically shown as large shapes, while children are shown as smaller shapes. A black horizontal line connecting two individuals indicates they are married.
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Children
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Children are connected to the horizontal marriage line by vertical lines, in order of birth. Twins and other multiples are joined together by two diagonal lines emerging from the same point on the marriage line.
Unique Situations
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Adopted children are connected to the parents' line by a dashed line and a solid line, while foster children are connected by a single dashed line. A triangle represents an unknown sex. Deceased family members are noted with an X through their shape.
Family Relationships
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Lines of various colors and types connecting shapes indicate family relationships. For example, a red solid line with two slashes through it indicates divorce. A blue, dashed line shows an engagement. A black line with an X through it denotes one of the spouses is widowed.
Emotional Relationships
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The lines also symbolize emotional relationships between family members. For example, a blue zigzag line indicates an abusive relationship. Two red, dashed lines show discord. A solid green line denotes harmony.
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