Eco-Map

An eco-map is a paper-and-pencil assessment that produces a pictorial representation of the interconnections between the individual and family and other related systems (e.g., schools, religion, social services, and hospitals). It is used to diagram and assess personal and social relationships within someone’s environment. The eco-map is typically depicted by drawing the individual or family within a large circle and then drawing smaller circles, representing people or groups, around the larger circle. Different lines are used to draw the nature of the relationship of the individual or family to those smaller circles. Relationships can be strong, stressful, or tenuous. This map can then be used as an assessment tool and as a component of treatment planning. This entry explains the theoretical underpinnings of systems theory ...