Miami Dade College Family Genogram Project

Genogram Assignment Information

You will develop a genogram that concentrates on family health history. This will help you to recognize and understand how past influences on current behavioral patterns, genetics and environment can influence health and illness and assess a family member’s risk of developing disease. 

The Genogram assignment consists of developing a genogram of a family along with a narrative where you discuss the family’s health history and patterns and how this affects upon their health and decision-making. 

Directions: Use the Genogram Template provided in the class.  You may also use one from the internet. See page 21 in your textbook for an example of how it will look.

You must type the genogram and the genogram template should fit on one page and the narrative should fit on the second page. No handwritten Genograms will be accepted. 

The genogram should consist of a three generational family genogram

DIAGRAM the demographic data (include legend on the genogram) Include: 1) Dates of birth/deaths and 2) if deceased, cause of death

Diagram the medical history and behavioral problems for each individual on the genogram (such as divorce, abortion, suicide, smoking, close relations, marital status). Include major family events, losses, and roles in the family, along with major medical diagnoses

Provide a key depicting all symbols used, keeping it simple and visible

Select a major family theme and cite evidence from your data that supports the significance of these themes across the three generations. Include the similarities and differences in the generations. Family Themes – are defined as subjects or topics of verbal or nonverbal communication that are repeated over time and influence the behavior of family members. The following are examples of topics which might become family themes: work, leisure, education, roles, orientation toward adults, children, or both, time (future, present, past), money, independence/dependence, culture (norm, traditions, rituals perpetuated, etc.)

Identify and discuss in the narrative write up, the family’s health history and patterns of illness or disease which are inherited, communicable or chronic, e.g., diabetes, cancer, TB, heart disease, etc. Also note major accidents. The narrative should also include an evaluation of the family’s genetic history and how it impacts on the current and future health for this family group. 

Your Narrative paragraphs must include the following:

1. a. Discuss their significance across the three (3) generations. 

b. Describe at least three (3) family strengths based upon the analysis.

c. Describe at least three (3) family weaknesses 

d. Identify three (3) recommended changes based on the evaluation of the
family group’s health history and include a citation and reference for recommended change