Family Tree

Intention:

Genograms are versions of the diagram commonly known as a family tree. Not only do they illustrate a family constellation, but they can include information on family dynamics, transgenerational trends, and more. Genograms illustrate how events in the past have influenced the present, and can serve to identify, examine, and address problematic family issues. Many therapists use genograms as assessment and counseling tools in individual, couples, and family therapy. We can benefit from recognizing elements and trends in our family tree that have the potential to explain and transform existing and subsequent branches.

Drawing our genogram is part of self-exploration towards better self-understanding. This exercise is an opportunity to develop awareness into our family of origin and our current family, which influences future generations.

Instruction:

Following the directions on the following pages, draw a genogram of at least three generations, representing the members of your family, including yourself. Make copies of this basic genogram if you want to use it as a template for other versions, depending on your ​​focus and purpose.

Inspection:

·       What did you learn in the process of drawing your family tree?

·       What patterns do you recognize as you examine your family tree diagram?

·       Did this exercise stimulate a desire to discuss any issues with your family members?

·       What emotional reactions were triggered by this experience?

·       What do you see when you analyze the structure, the pairings, alliances, etc. of your genogram?

·       How similar or different do you think the genograms would be if other members of your family drew them?

·       If you were to draw a genogram of your ‘ideal’ family, what would it look like?

Draw your family tree, following the guidelines below:

Symbols

Feminine- circle; masculine- square

deceased- crossed-out circle or square.

Lines

Horizontal- couple (continuous if married, intermittent if not married, crossed if divorced)

Vertical- descendants (children, in birth order)

Connections

Double line- close; triple line- too close; zig zag- conflictual; broken line- distant; line crossed by two lines diagonally- cut off.

Groups

Triangles and groupings by dwelling place- enclosed in dashed circles.

Other information

Names and nicknames, ages, personality characteristics, occupations, health & legal issues, important dates, significant events, traditions, etc.