Creating an Inclusive Genogram: A Step-by-Step Guide
A genogram is a powerful tool for mapping out family relationships, patterns, and histories. Unlike a traditional family tree, a genogram provides detailed information about individuals and their connections, including birth dates, death dates, types of relationships, and the quality of those relationships. To create a truly inclusive genogram, it’s important to use specific icons and notations that recognize and respect diverse gender identities and sexual orientations. Here’s a detailed guide on how to create a comprehensive and inclusive genogram.
1. Understanding the Basics of a Genogram
Before diving into specifics, it’s crucial to understand the basic components of a genogram:
- Individuals: Represented by shapes (typically squares for males and circles for females).
- Relationships: Lines connecting individuals to show relationships (e.g., marriage, cohabitation, divorce).
- Generations: Organized in horizontal levels, with the oldest generation at the top.
2. Selecting Tools and Materials
To create a genogram, you can use:
- Paper and pencil for a manual genogram.
- Genogram software like GenoPro or online tools such as Canva for digital creation.
3. Symbols for Inclusive Representation
Here are recommended symbols and notations to ensure inclusivity:
- Transgender Male (Female to Male): A circle with a square inside of it.
- Transgender Female (Male to Female): A square with a circle inside of it.
- Non-Binary Individuals: Diamond shapes
- Gay: A square with an upside down triangle (pointing downwards) inside of it.
- Lesbian: A circle with an upside down triangle (pointing downwards) inside of it.
- Bisexual Male: A square with an dotted line, upside down triangle (pointing downwards) inside of it.
- Bisexual Female: A circle with an dotted line, upside down triangle (pointing downwards) inside of it.
- Non-Binary Individuals: Diamond shape.
- Sexually Diverse Identities: Use colors or flags (rainbow flag for gay/lesbian, bisexual flag, etc.) next to their name or within their shape.
- Birth Dates/Death Dates: Noted below the individual’s shape.
- Types of Relationships: Different lines for marriage, cohabitation, and divorce.
- Quality of Relationships: Dotted lines for strained relationships, solid lines for strong relationships.
4. Detailed Steps to Create Your Genogram
Step 1: Gather Information
Collect detailed information about family members, including:
- Names: Full names of each family member.
- Birth Dates: Date of birth for each individual.
- Death Dates: Date of death for deceased family members.
- Gender Identities: Male, female, transgender, non-binary, etc.
- Sexual Orientations: Gay, lesbian, bisexual, etc.
- Relationships: Types (marriage, cohabitation, divorce) and quality (strong, strained).
Step 2: Draw the First Generation
Start with the oldest generation at the top:
- Males: Squares
- Females: Circles
- Transgender Male (Female to Male): A circle with a square inside of it.
- Transgender Female (Male to Female): A square with a circle inside of it.
- Non-Binary Individuals: Diamond shapes
- Gay: A square with an upside down triangle (pointing downwards) inside of it.
- Lesbian: A circle with an upside down triangle (pointing downwards) inside of it.
- Bisexual Male: A square with an dotted line, upside down triangle (pointing downwards) inside of it.
- Bisexual Female: A circle with an dotted line, upside down triangle (pointing downwards) inside of it.
Add birth and death dates below each individual’s shape.
Step 3: Add Subsequent Generations
Draw the next generation below the first, connecting parents to their children with vertical lines. Continue this process until all generations are represented.
Step 4: Indicate Relationships
Use the following lines to represent relationships:
- Marriage: Solid horizontal line connecting two individuals.
- Cohabitation: Dashed horizontal line.
- Divorce: Slashed horizontal line.
- Children: Vertical lines descending from the parent relationship line to the children.
Step 5: Include Relationship Quality
Indicate the quality of relationships with different line styles:
- Strong Relationships: Solid lines.
- Strained Relationships: Dotted lines.
Step 6: Incorporate LGBTQ Symbols
Next to each individual’s shape, include a small icon or flag indicating their sexual orientation if they identify as LGBTQ:
- Other LGBTQ Identities: Appropriate flag or symbol next to their shape.
7. Add Detailed Annotations
You can add more details about each individual, such as:
- Health Issues: Specific symbols for physical or mental health conditions.
- Educational Background: Degrees or educational achievements.
- Significant Life Events: Icons for events like migration, career changes, or major accomplishments.
8. Finalizing Your Genogram
Review your genogram for completeness and accuracy. Ensure that all relationships are correctly depicted and that all individuals’ identities are respectfully represented.
Conclusion
Creating an inclusive genogram involves thoughtful consideration and the use of comprehensive symbols. By following these steps, you can create a detailed and respectful family map that acknowledges and honors the diversity of identities within your family. This inclusive approach not only helps in understanding family dynamics but also promotes acceptance and recognition of all family members.
