Couple relationships are represented in the genogram with a horizontal line between the two symbols, with precise variations depending on the type of bond. The man-left / woman-right convention is classic, although it is optional in modern systems.
Line types: solid = marriage · dashed = cohabitation or common-law union (sometimes marked “LT” for living together) · short dotted = engagement or formal courtship · thin line = dating relationship · line with ONE diagonal slash = legal separation without divorce · line with TWO diagonal slashes = finalized divorce · line with “ANN” annotation = annulment.
Special cases: affair (pink dot-dash line in GenoPro), violent relationship (zigzag line with directional arrow indicating aggressor), widowhood (the deceased partner has an X inside but the marriage line remains visible).
For Hellinger, previous partners are not erased, even if there is a divorce. The line with a double slash remains in the genogram because that bond belonged to the system, and “belonging” is forever. Erasing the father's first wife from the genogram breaks the law of belonging.
Bibliography
- Genograms: Assessment and Treatment — Monica McGoldrick, Randy Gerson, Sueli Petry. W.W. Norton, 4ª ed., 2020.
- The Orders of Love — Bert Hellinger. Herder, 2001.
These books are in the reference library that nourishes Constelando el Origen.
Related terms
Clinical genogram
Standardized family diagram that maps at least three generations using universal symbols (McGoldrick). Visual basis for systemic work.
See entryPrevious partner belongs (Hellinger convention)
A parent's or grandparent's previous partner is drawn in full, with the marriage line severed by divorce, but remains in the genogram. Hellinger: "exes are not erased."
See recordBelonging
First systemic law: everyone who belonged to the system, belongs forever. Excluding someone forces the system to represent them later.
See recordA session that names what hurts
If you recognize this dynamic in your own history, a Family Constellation can reveal where it comes from and what movement orders it. Daniela accompanies each case with respect.
Sessions in Spanish only