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Simple Genogram Template
A one-generation nuclear family genogram template with structural and emotional relationship lines. Open in EasyGenogram to customize and export.
What This Template Shows
This is a nuclear family genogram (a married couple and their three biological children) with structural lines showing the marriage and parent-child relationships, and emotional lines showing a very close bond between the parents and a distant/poor relationship between the father and the eldest daughter. The diagram covers only the immediate household.
The outline on the eldest daughter's shape identifies her as the primary person; the subject of the assessment.
See the Simple Genogram Example for a filled-in version with labels and a brief breakdown of what each element shows.
The symbol legend is displayed below the diagram. For a full reference, see Genogram Symbols Explained.
When to Use This Template
- First genogram assignment: covers the nuclear family unit with standard structural and emotional notation, without the added complexity of grandparents or extended family branches.
- Therapy intake: maps the immediate household structure and key emotional relationships before a first session, when a full multi-generational diagram is not yet warranted.
- Social work intake: documents household composition and relationship quality for a new case where the presenting concern is contained within the immediate family unit.
- Teaching genogram basics: used by instructors to introduce standard notation before adding grandparents, health markers, or more complex relationship types.
How to Use This Template
1. Download as-is
Click the PDF or PNG button under the embed to download the template immediately. Print it and fill in by hand, or use it as a reference for building your own.
2. Customize before downloading
Click "Use this genogram" to open the template in EasyGenogram. Replace the generic labels (Father, Mother, Daughter, Son) with real names, adjust or remove the emotional relationship lines, and add or remove family members as needed.
Export as PDF or PNG when done, or share via link with a supervisor, colleague, or client.
If you need the diagram in Microsoft Word, Google Docs, or for a Canva design, export as PNG and insert it into your document.
Simple Genogram Template
Explore this genogram and adapt it to your needs.
FAQ
Is this simple genogram template free?
Yes, open and customize it in EasyGenogram at no cost. Export requires a subscription for most users; students with a valid school email can export free.
What does a simple genogram include?
This template includes a married couple, their three biological children, a primary person marker, and two emotional relationship lines; very close and distant/poor. It uses standard McGoldrick-Gerson-Petry notation.
Can I use this for a social work or counseling assignment?
Yes. The template follows standard genogram notation used across social work, counseling, and psychology coursework.
How is a simple genogram template different from a full family genogram template?
A simple genogram covers one nuclear family unit (parents and children) without grandparents, extended family, or health condition markers. A full family genogram adds those layers. Use the simple version when the assignment or intake scope is limited to the immediate household.
How many generations does a simple genogram cover?
Two. A simple genogram maps a single nuclear family unit; two parents and their children. It does not include grandparents or extended family.
