Genogram Essay

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Genotypes: Identifying Predispositions for Genetic Illnesses & Diseases
Lois N. Maynard
PY218, Susan Baisden/SWVCTC
Research Project #1

Abstract
A genogram is a type of family tree, but with more detailed information. It is used as a diagnostic tool by physicians or counselors to learn a patient’s and their family history to help in the establishment of a diagnosis and treatment plan. They allow the individual to see some hereditary patterns and psychological factors that could be genetically predisposed to. Also, they can be used to identify patterns of behaviors, life choices, and hereditary tendencies. A genogram not only will identify the names of people that belong to the person's family, it can also show the emotional and social …show more content…

The main use is to evaluate disease risk, identify repetitive patterns of behavior.
Genograms gain popularity
In 1985 through the publication of a book Genograms: Assessments and Interventions (1985), by Monica McGoldrick and Randy Gerson the term was rapidly popularized in clinical settings. The use of genogram has been used by various professional field such as education, medicine, psychiatry, psychology, genetics and many more.
Uses of genograms.
Genograms have been used to incorporate observations about medical history and major traits of each member of the family. Genograms have been also used as tools to uncover repetitive behaviors, family conflicts and alliances, marriages, family secrets, careers, and any other information that can be used to benefit the patient and their family.
Counseling.
Family genograms are usually used in family counseling, it helps explain the influences and trends that changes over time and across generations. Genograms can be developed mostly to document a range of family dynamics. They also could be designed with a larger focus on the influence of family on an individual's life

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