A Genogram, a specialized family tree diagram spanning several generations, goes beyond mere ancestry to uncover intricate family relationships and patterns. It serves as a vital tool for individuals aiming to delve deeper into their family dynamics, providing key insights into both emotional connections and genealogical lineage. Through this form, one can trace how familial tendencies, both positive and negative, replicate across generations, shedding light on the fabric of one’s heritage. It is not just a historical account but a mirror reflecting the complexities and bonds that define a family's essence. Interestingly, constructing a Genogram can immensely aid in personal development and healing, particularly in identifying and understanding patterns of behavior attributed to one's familial background. The process of creating a Genogram involves simple tools—pencil and paper are foundational, but accessing family archives like photographs, journals, and speaking with knowledgeable relatives enriches the narrative. This practice is not confined to a perfect timing; it can yield benefits in moments of calm and crisis alike, providing clarity and potential paths toward resolving longstanding conflicts. Embracing one's family tree, with all its beauty and flaws, through the lens of a Genogram, uncovers the profound interconnectedness within families and offers a roadmap for personal growth and deeper familial understanding.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Form Name | Blank Family Genogram |
| Form Length | 1 pages |
| Fillable? | No |
| Fillable fields | 0 |
| Avg. time to fill out | 15 sec |
| Other names | fillable genogram chart, genogram maker online, create genogram online, easy genogram maker |
GENOGRAMS
A Genogram is a type of family tree, a diagram of a family over several generations. More importantly, it is a representation of those family relationships. It is designed to help you understand your family and most importantly you better. To an extent, the genogram is a road map of your family. It will show you where you came from and where you are going.
The genogram diagrams emotional links as well as genealogical lines. You may learn that you are more connected to your family than you thought. Families tend to repeat themselves. What happens in one generation can often repeat itself in the next. The
Genogram can highlight both current and historical family patterns. The Genogram gives insight into how “normal” or “dysfunctional” your family is. Doing a genogram can help
break through denial and point out family troubles.
Think of your family as a tree. Your family tree has roots (solid or shallow), branches (strong or weak), and leaves (brilliant or dull). While it is important to see the beauty of your tree, it is equally important to be aware of its blemishes.
When to do a Genogram
There is no perfect time to construct a genogram. You can do it when you are calm, but it is likely you won’t be stacking it with unresolved emotional issues. Although a crisis is
seldom the best time to dig into matters that might make your crisis even bigger, doing a genogram during this period often relieves anxiety and offers information that can help you resolve conflict.
What you need
Doing a genogram is simpler than most people think. You need a pencil and something to draw the genogram on. It is best to have a large piece of paper, as you will be surprised how many people will end up taking space on your genogram. If they are available, it is helpful to have items such as a family bible, photographs, and diaries, journals or scrapbooks.
Your relatives are an excellent, if not 100% accurate, source of family information. There is probably one relative who knows the most about your family background. Most families have an UNOFFICIAL keeper of the records. Also, keep in mind that the person with the most information to offer may not be the one you would automatically expect.
Compiled by the Center on Fathering August, 1996 - Revised, 2/00
