Family Dynamics and Trauma

Family Trauma Infographic
Rationale: This assignment aims to help students understand how the genogram visually describes a family within the larger social context, illustrate relationships and patterns of interaction, and record specific events that have supported growth or created barriers to optimal development. It is important to note that for this assessment of your experience, there aren’t “right” or “wrong” answers.”
There are multiple ways in which students can complete this assignment. Students can complete this assignment after watching a movie or television show that has multi-layered family dynamics. The movie options to review include: Royal Tenebaums, the Family Stone, Little Miss Sunshine, Knives Out, What’s Eating Gilbert Grape
Assignment requirements:
Students are to complete a genogram regarding a family from a movie above. They are to include details of the relationship back to three generations. (siblings, parents, and grandparents). Students can include another generation if there is important information. They are to graph their relationships with each member, boundary styles, communication styles, behaviors, and all important information that genograms provide.
Students are to write one paragraph summarizing each family member. This summary should include any important information that might be a part of family therapy.
Reflection paper: Students will complete a 2-3 page paper about their experience. This summary should include:
• How they felt completing the genogram
• Feelings that were brought up and how they dealt with them
• How they feel this type of assessment is helpful in family practice.
• Moving forward, how a genogram could be helpful in family therapy.
Note: For this assignment, you should share only what feels safe and comfortable. Be mindful of this balance as you participate in activities, assignments, and service/collaboration with clients. Please consider all aspects of your mental health and well being when choosing whether to focus on your family, a television/movie family, or the alternative option. We’ve provided multiple options to accommodate students unique situations, while ensuring that each option will meet the learning objectives. Choose what’s right for you!