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Genogram Symbol Reference Guide

Standard notation for mapping family structure and relational dynamics

RelationshipsInfographicFree ResourceLast reviewed April 2026

Genogram Symbol Reference Guide

Standard notation for mapping family structure and relational dynamics

Genogram Symbol Reference Guide

Standard notation for mapping family structure and relational dynamics

A genogram is a multigenerational family map that uses standardized symbols to represent family members, their relationships, and significant patterns. Originally developed by Murray Bowen and refined by Monica McGoldrick and colleagues (McGoldrick et al., 2020), genograms are widely used in family therapy, medical practice, and social work to visualize relational dynamics across generations.

1
Gender and Identity Symbols
Males are represented by a square, females by a circle, transgender individuals by a square-circle combination, and non-binary individuals by a diamond. The identified patient or client is indicated by a double border around their symbol.
2
Lifespan Indicators
A living person is shown with an open symbol. A deceased person is indicated by an X drawn through the symbol. Birth year is written above the symbol, and age or age at death is written inside.
3
Family Relationship Lines
Marriage is shown by a solid horizontal line connecting two symbols. Committed partnerships use a dashed line. Separation is indicated by one diagonal slash through the line, and divorce by two slashes. Cohabitation is shown by a dotted line.
4
Children and Offspring
Children descend from the couple line vertically, ordered left to right from oldest to youngest. Adopted children are connected by a dashed vertical line. Twins are shown with lines converging to a single point. Identical twins add a horizontal bar between the converging lines. A pregnancy is represented by a small triangle.
5
Emotional Relationship Patterns
Normal relationships use a single line. Close relationships use two parallel lines. Very close or fused relationships use three lines. Conflictual relationships use a zigzag line. Distant relationships use a dotted line. Estranged or cutoff relationships use a line with perpendicular hash marks. Fused and conflictual relationships combine three lines with a zigzag.
6
Abuse and Harmful Dynamics
Emotional abuse is shown by a line with a jagged segment. Physical abuse uses an arrow from the perpetrator to the target. Sexual abuse uses a curved arrow. The direction of the arrow indicates the direction of the abusive behavior.
Genograms typically include at least three generations. Use consistent symbol sizes and spacing to maintain readability. Add dates, names, and brief annotations to provide clinical context.

References

  • McGoldrick, M., Gerson, R., & Petry, S. (2020). Genograms: Assessment and treatment (4th ed.). W. W. Norton & Company.

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Common Questions

What is the Genogram Symbol Reference Guide worksheet?

A genogram is a multigenerational family map that uses standardized symbols to represent family members, their relationships, and significant patterns.

How do I use the Genogram Symbol Reference Guide worksheet?

Review this visual guide to understand the concept. Use it as a quick reference during sessions. Consider printing this and keeping it somewhere visible as a daily reminder.

Is the Genogram Symbol Reference Guide worksheet free?

Yes. Like every worksheet on Therapy Resource, it is free to read, print, and download as a PDF, no account required. A Pro subscription adds online filling with saved progress, practice-branded PDF exports, and secure client sharing.

Who is the Genogram Symbol Reference Guide worksheet for?

It is designed for therapists and counselors doing relationships work with clients, and for individuals using it for self-guided practice. Pro members can share it with clients through a private link. No client account needed.

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