Genogram

An overview of genograms, their uses, and symbols

Genogram

A genogram is a graphical representation of a family tree that displays detailed data on relationships among individuals. It goes beyond a traditional family tree by allowing the user to analyze hereditary patterns and psychological factors that punctuate relationships. Genograms are used in various fields such as medicine, psychology, social work, and genealogy to identify patterns of behavior and medical history.

Common symbols used in genograms

History

The concept of the genogram was developed in the 1970s by Murray Bowen, a pioneer in family therapy. Bowen's work on family systems theory laid the groundwork for the use of genograms in understanding family dynamics. The genogram has since evolved to include a wide range of symbols and notations to represent complex family relationships and medical histories.

Structure

A genogram typically includes symbols to represent individuals and lines to depict relationships. Standard symbols include squares for males, circles for females, and various lines to indicate relationships such as marriage, divorce, or cohabitation. Additional symbols and annotations can indicate medical conditions, emotional relationships, and other significant family dynamics.

Symbols

The symbols used in genograms are standardized to convey specific information:

• A square represents a male.
• A circle represents a female.
• A horizontal line connecting a square and a circle represents a marriage.
• A diagonal line through a horizontal line indicates a divorce.
• A vertical line descending from a couple represents their children.
• Shaded symbols can indicate individuals with specific medical conditions or traits.

Uses

Genograms are used in various professional fields:

Medicine

In medicine, genograms help healthcare providers understand the hereditary patterns of diseases within a family. They can be used to assess the risk of genetic disorders, track the occurrence of chronic illnesses, and plan preventive measures.

Psychology

In psychology, genograms are used to explore family dynamics and relationships. They help therapists identify patterns of behavior, emotional connections, and unresolved conflicts within a family system.

Social Work

In social work, genograms assist in understanding the family context of clients. They provide insights into family structures, support systems, and potential areas of intervention.

Creating a Genogram

Creating a genogram involves gathering detailed information about a family, including:

• Names and birthdates of family members
• Marital status and relationship history
• Medical history and genetic conditions
• Emotional relationships and significant life events

The information is then organized into a visual format using the standardized symbols and lines.

Related pages

• Family therapy
• Family systems theory
• Genealogy
• Pedigree chart