Genograms

A genogram is a diagram in standardized format that is used as an assessment and intervention tool in clinical settings. Similar to a family tree, the genogram visually represents family facts, complex family patterns, and relationships of at least three generations. The ability to collect, synthesize, and visualize important multigenerational family information is a powerful tool for marriage, family, and couples counselors who are charged with making sense out of the vast amounts of information collected while working with clients. After describing the origins of the genogram, this entry presents an overview of its clinical uses, briefly explains the method of constructing genograms, and concludes with a discussion of key issues to consider in incorporating the use of the genogram in therapeutic practice.