#Genogram on word social work series#

It also can help you understand why these things might have happened.”. “A genogram can give you insight into the many different things that have happened in your family, such as negative family dynamics and family struggles, like divorce, death, and broken relationships. Why you are creating the genogram and how it can help them. “Has anyone in your family ever been arrested or incarcerated?” “What was your aunt and uncle's marriage like?”. “Who in your family has experienced mental health issues? What about anyone who received treatment for a psychiatric disorder?”. “Who in your family is widowed, divorced, or unmarried?”. “Has anyone in your family attempted or completed suicide?”.

“Tell me about any history of alcoholism in your family.”. “How many siblings does your mother have?”. “To whom was your grandfather married?”.

For instance, let them know you will ask things like:. A divorce is depicted by two lines crossing through this line connecting the two spouses.” (Be sure to point to the symbols and shapes on the genogram as you are explaining them.) A pregnancy is represented by a triangle. For instance, males are represented by a square, and females are represented by a circle. Each symbol or shape has a specific meaning. “You will see me using various symbols and shapes on this genogram. “We will use standard symbols representing individual family members and their physical and mental health history and specifics on their history of substance use.”. “Here is an example of what we will create.” (Show the example genogram in Exhibit 4.3). If you do not know some of the answers now, perhaps you can look into them between our sessions, and we can discuss how this family history is important to your current efforts in recovery.”.

“To develop your genogram, I'll ask you a series of questions going back to your great grandparents. “A genogram is a lot like a family tree in that it is a picture that uses shapes and figures to represent the people, relationships, and events in your family.” “A genogram is a way of recording and interpreting your family's history so you can better understand the genetic, medical, social, and cultural aspects of your family.”. For instance, you can say something like:. When talking about genograms with clients and families, be sure to discuss with them: To get the best use of the genogram, you need to have a meaningful, productive discussion with clients and their families about its role and value as well as the process of developing a genogram. Most clients and families will not have heard of a genogram before, and genograms can be confusing without an explanation of their appearance and purpose. COUNSELOR NOTE: TALKING TO CLIENTS ABOUT GENOGRAMS IN A MEANINGFUL WAY

#Genogram on word social work series#