Genogram

Overview

A genogram is a visual map of a child’s family and connections. It helps caseworkers see relatives and fictive kin in a clear, easy-to-understand tree.

Why It Matters

Genograms are exciting and highly anticipated by many agencies because they:

• Give caseworkers a big-picture view of a child’s family and relationships.
• Help identify gaps in family finding work, showing where more research is needed.
• Serve as a resource for children in care to explore their connections, or to use as a tool when aging out.  

How it Works

1. Toggle to Genogram View 
   From the Relationships Dashboard, switch between the List View and Genogram View. You can also toggle to see Fictive Kin
   

2. View Connected Relatives
   
   Example:
   Uncle Tony is a paternal uncle related to Dad, John. Initially, Uncle Tony’s card is floating. Clicking his card, you add his connection to John. The genogram then automatically updates to show Uncle Tony properly linked in the tree.
   

   To connect a relative: 

   1. Click on their card to see relationship details.
      
   2. Scroll to the bottom for actions:
      • Use Add/Edit Other Relationships to link the relative to all relevant first-degree relatives. 
        
   3. Save your updates, and the genogram automatically re-formats to show all captured connections.
      

    

   Key Things to Note

   • The genogram is designed to capture real relationship data, not just drag-and-drop lines. This ensures accuracy based on the detailed information already recorded in Binti.
   • Connections must be added step by step, especially for relatives beyond first-degree. This helps accurately represent complex families, including step-parents, same-sex parents, adopted parents, and other scenarios.
   • Binti does not automatically place relatives beyond the first degree based on the maternal and paternal labels because that does not guarantee accuracy in the diverse family structures served.

Genograms make family connections visual, actionable, and meaningful, helping you track your work, identify gaps, and support children in understanding their families.