Appearance
Genogram Violence Relationship Symbol
The violence relationship symbol is shown as a closely jagged red line between two people, with a directional arrow identifying the direction of violence. Use it when physical violence is part of the relationship pattern. This guide explains when to use it and how it differs from hostility, abuse, and conflict.
Violence Symbol Example in a Genogram
Violence Symbol Example in a Genogram
Frank Delacroix has been physically violent toward his son, Owen Delacroix.
The line runs from Frank to Owen, with the arrow pointing toward him, showing the direction the violence ran.
Violence vs. Hostile vs. Abuse
These three sit close together, but each marks something different:
- Hostile: red jagged line. Open antagonism or dislike, directed at another person.
- Violence: red jagged line, directional. Physical aggression specifically.
- Abuse: indigo jagged line, directional. The broader pattern of harm, which can include physical, emotional, or sexual abuse and neglect.
How to Add It in EasyGenogram
Select the relationship line between the two people and choose Violence from the emotional line set.
Click the person acting violently first, then the person on the receiving end, so the arrow points the correct direction.
Violence Symbol Example in a Genogram
Explore this genogram and adapt it to your needs.
FAQ
What does the violence symbol look like on a genogram?
A red jagged line between two people, with a directional arrow pointing from the person acting violently toward the person on the receiving end.
How do you show who was violent and who was harmed?
The line is directional. Click the person acting violently first, then the person harmed, so the arrow points from the first to the second.
What's the difference between violence and hostile relationship on a genogram?
Hostile marks open antagonism or dislike, which may or may not involve physical aggression. Violence specifically marks a physical act, and is directional to show who it came from.
What's the difference between violence and abuse on a genogram?
Abuse is the broader category, covering physical, emotional, or sexual abuse and neglect. Violence marks the physical act specifically, which is more precise when that's the confirmed dynamic.
Can violence be shown as mutual?
Yes, but since the line is directional, showing violence running both ways means adding the line twice, once for each direction.