A genogram is a valuable tool for counselors seeking to analyze family issues and relationships among family members. It aids in identifying the origins of dysfunctional characteristics within a family, as well as observing how each member copes with the dysfunction. Genograms collect and organize important data spanning at least three generations, allowing counselors to gain insight into the multi-generational family system and screen for emerging family problems. The use of genograms proved challenging for the writer, who lacked a family-of-origin due to being in the foster care system. The writer’s lack of stable adult figures in their life resulted in learning mostly from others’ mistakes, as establishing connections was often disrupted by frequent moves to new foster homes.
After terminating my connection with that set, I realized that the ways in which I could utilize the genogram were limited. There may be clients who are unable to complete their genogram due to displacement, adoption, or family death. This made me aware of the personal growth I still need to work on. I have some coping mechanisms that I must distance myself from in order to become a well-adjusted individual according to Butler (2008). When certain issues arise in my life, my immediate response can be instinctive. I must remind myself not to fall back into my old “triangular patterns” as noted by Bitter, Long, and Young (2010). It is important for me to not carry these feelings into counseling sessions with others. Bitter, Long, and Young (2010) defined a genogram as a family map that illustrates both the structure and emotional processes of a family (p. 72). Since I do not have a biological family, the foundation of structure and emotional processes lies within me. As the first generation of my multi-generational family, all dysfunctions either begin or end with me.
Looking back at my actions, my future family members will have the daunting and scary responsibility of determining if I caused any dysfunctions in our family. It is crucial to me that my family chooses to be guided by their thoughts rather than their feelings consistently. According to family systems theory, being a healthy person entails both a sense of belonging to the family and a sense of separateness and individuality (Bitter, Long, & Young, 2010, p. 81). Thus, I want my family to comprehend that they hold ultimate responsibility for their own physical, emotional, and spiritual behavior within the family. As a counselor, closely examining the genograms of the families I counsel will be necessary. Understanding the dynamics of mother-daughter and father-son relationships will pose challenges for me. Being aware that everything I do now will impact future generations motivates me not to disappoint them.
