A genogram has a similar structure as a family tree. However, rather than just showing the lineage, a genogram also includes added information about interactions and relationships between family members. In a genogram, you will notice how members of the family interact with each other. Therefore, after drafting a genogram, you will notice patterns and trends in your family that could not be easily noticed before. For instance, you would notice a trend of marital problems in the family history, or maybe some illness.
The main challenge faced in the process of constructing a genogram is sourcing information. It especially becomes an issue when some members of the three generations are dead, and the living members are unable to provide some crucial information. Also, the interpretation of the genogram could be different for different family members. Almost every member of the family will have their perspective regarding an issue, resulting in different genograms for the same.
Delegate your assignment to our experts and they will do the rest.
In any genogram, it is likely to observe emotional cutoffs, triangles and other patterns. Triangles are evident in a family with just one child. These form the smallest stable family unit in the genogram. Emotional cutoffs are also evident in the genogram, where there are some unresolved emotional issues between family members resulting in reducing or totally cutting off emotions with each other.
In the therapy session between Betty, Tito, and Diana, one striking feature evident is the existence of triangulation. Tito and his ex-wife, Mary, have unresolved disputes, and they end up directing their attention to their problematic son, Isaac. Isaac is triangulated into this relationship, acting as a temporary distraction to the existing chaos. Also, Diana and Isaac have a conflict into which Tito is triangulated to act as the mediator.
One important clinical concept that I would apply in my practice is family medicine. There are certain medical conditions that are hereditary and could be caused by some family situation. A genogram makes such issues clear. Keenly studying a genogram would reveal certain patterns in the history of the family’s health, thus allowing for the necessary precautions.
Reference
Genograms for Psychotherapy (Guide) | Therapist Aid. (2017). Therapist Aid. Retrieved 6 February 2017, from http://www.therapistaid.com/therapy-guide/genograms
