Question

What are the values of genograms in working with a family? How might you use a genogram in working with members of a family? Then think about the the concept of triangulation, how might it need to be modified to fit certain cultural contexts? Many family therapists view triangles as being problematic in a family. Can you think of cultural situations where triangles may be appropriate?

Answer 1

A genogram is a way of mapping or identifying all the members of the family along with their patterns of interaction and communication in relation to each other. It is different from a family tree in that it provides more than just an understanding of who is in the family; it provides for an understanding of the relationships, closeness, interactions between different family members and how it can affect or influence the family.

Why does a genogram help while working with a family and how will you use it?

• Like mentioned above, it helps to map family relationships and helps both the client and therapist get an understanding of the functioning of the family
• Helps identify and understand current issues, and where it can possibly stem from
• Understand patterns of interaction, communication and influence among family members. For example, understanding that transactional communication between two partners is leading to constant arguments can help the therapist work on changing their communication patterns.

Typically, the genogram is composed of details of three generations. This feature helps in understanding how similar problems have been dealt with before and provide clues on effectively dealing with it.

Triangulation is a concept by Murray Bowen in which a third party becomes intervenes into a stressful relationship between a dyad to reduce the stress and tension. In a therapy set up, the therapist becomes triangulated with the couple. This is not to say that triangulation is always positive. Sometimes, triangulation can result in a lot of stress by itself. For example, an argument within a couple can be triangulated by the child when the father/ mother seeks the support of the child. This puts undue pressure on the child and pushes them.

Triangulation and culture

Culture plays a huge role in therapy and how it is accepted. Some families come from individualistic cultures while others come from collectivistic ones. This by itself gives the outlook for therapy. For example, some cultures are accepting and actually enjoy developing a genogram whereas other cultures may see it as prying by the therapist till they have gained their trust(Boyd-Franklin, 2003).

Therefore, al though the concept of triangulation plays a key role in understandinga family, it is important to understand the cultural background of the family and pay attention to developing rapport and trust before starting the process of genogram and triangulation