Forensic family genogram. An assessment & intervention tool

The forensic genogram is a three-generational graphic description of a patient's family, and as an assessment tool, it is applicable to any forensic nurse whether working in assessment or treatment areas. The forensic genogram is also an intervention. Nurses using this tool have found that offenders appreciate seeing the patterns in their lives as a beginning to their understanding of their personal circumstances. As part of the legal chart, the forensic family genogram serves as a graphic database for information and could routinely accompany the court letter, providing the judge, the prosecutor and the defense with additional knowledge at a glance. The author recommends the forensic genogram tool for student nurses beginning to understand the complexities of the forensic offender population. The forensic genogram may provide further information that facilitates health promotion, cost containment, and a further understanding of the events and factors in the individual lives of offenders that have resulted in their current situations before the courts. The author wishes to acknowledge the influence of Drs. Wright, Bell, and Watson, during graduate studies at the University of Calgary in the early '90s. Over the years these internationally renowned nursing specialists have introduced nurses globally to the important work of family systems nursing.