Theme: Family & Relationships

Families Of Origin: Constructing A Genogram

by Brent Satterly

This lesson provides participants with an opportunity to explore the impact their Families of Origin (FoO) have had on their positive and challenging experience(s) of self and others, especially around racial and sexual orientation identities. Specifically, participants will create a genogram, a type of psychological family tree where they map FoO generations, including critical FoO events, family legacies, and loyalty conflicts. Exploring FoOs will allow participants to identify both risk and protective factors within their families.

Objectives

By the end of this lesson, participants will be able to:

  • Construct a genogram with at least two generations.
  • Describe at least two challenging dynamics of their Family of Origin relationships listed in the genogram, specifically in relation to themselves.
  • Describe at least two potential positive dynamics of their Family of Origin relationships listed in the genogram, specifically in relation to themselves.

Included in this Lesson

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Group Size

This lesson can be conducted with both small (5 or more) and large (10 or more) groups with reasonable ease. In addition, while there can be more than one person facilitating the lesson, one person should be able to facilitate it effectively as well.

Time

120 minutes

Materials

Name tags
Flip chart paper
Legal-sized paper
Markers
Colored pencils
Computer and projector
Speakers
Printed handouts