Discussion Thread: Genograms: Initial Insights and Considerations
for Practice
Over the past few weeks, you have learned about the genogram in the
McGoldrick, et.al., text. The first five chapters provide lots of information
about how and why the genogram is used, as well as introducing you to the
concepts of patterns and constellations in family systems. For your initial
post, share your thoughts on how the concepts of 1) Family Patterns and 2)
Family constellations are important. First, define each of these terms in your
own words and 2) discuss why it is important for family counselors and
therapists to assess family patterns and constellations during the
assessment phase of the therapeutic relationship
1) Tracking family patterns over time as they move through their lives will allow a better
understanding of the human experience in the context of their history versus a single individual
(McGoldrick et al., 2020). Family patterns can be identified through intergenerational problems
where a parent can mimic their old family dynamics with their children. I found the example
helpful in the McGoldrick et al text of a mother who used to be bossed around by her older
brother that now accuses her eldest son of tormenting his younger sister. Structural patterns
revealed by the lines and symbols within the constellation diagram can intensify when family
patterns are repetitive from one generation to the next et al., 2020). Genograms can (McGoldrick
assist in tracking coincidences of life events where changes can be observed. Evidence of pileups
in stressful events where there can be a rippling impact from trauma can allow a better
understanding of how one event can cause association to another. These events can reveal hidden
connections and emotional patterns that can have a systemic influence on the evolution of family
patterns ( et al., 2020).McGoldrick
A clinician can most effectively utilize family constellation information to develop hypotheses
about family roles and relationships, which should be continuously tested and refined as their
