Genograms and Family Systems Theory

I was introduced to Bowen Family Systems Theory while in seminary. I was taking a course on leadership and one of my absolute favorite professors taught us this theory and introduced us to the tools used. The genogram was one of those tools and something that stuck with me. I was fascinated by the artistic expression of relationship in a chart. Each relationship dynamic had different line colors and layouts (for example: biological children are connected to parents with a solid line, adopted children with a dashed line and foster children with a dotted line) , each person in the family was represented by a shape. These family diagrams allow individuals to identify patters of behavior and relational dynamics present in a family. Understanding the generational relationships, where conflict exists, the diseases and abuse that exist can provide incredible insight into personal trauma and aid in the therapeutic healing process. Family systems theory and the family diagram are only tools. They can help in the identification of issues within the family system and be a great source of discussion within the family but simply knowing the information is not the healing work. It can be the beginning. I have included a resource from the GenoPro.com website which shows the various symbols and lines used in a family genogram. GenoPro.com has an online tool for creating a digital family systems diagram but I am uncertain of the costs associated. There are two books I really enjoy using for family diagrams. One book called is Genograms which goes even further into detail on each part of the diagram process and also A Family Genogram Workbook which is a more condense and user-friendly version. Both are great resources. The Bowen Center website is also a resource for understanding more about this topic and each of the eight components of systems theory including: Triangles, Differentiation of Self, Nuclear Family Emotional Process, Family Projection Process, Multigenerational Transmission Process, Emotional Cutoff, Sibling Position, and Societal Emotional Process. We welcome the opportunity to help individuals and families create their family diagrams. If you are interested in working on something like this in coaching, please contact us for pricing and scheduling.