Engagement Line
A dashed horizontal line represents an engagement or planned marriage
Standard genogram notation for engagement line
How to Use This Line
Used to show couples who are committed but not yet legally married
Clinical Context
Understanding the engagement line is essential for accurate genogram construction. This notation allows clinicians and family members to quickly identify relationship dynamics and patterns within the family system.
Best Practices
- Draw relationship lines clearly and consistently
- Label with dates when relevant (marriage date, separation date, etc.)
- Use standard line weights for visibility
- Position lines to minimize crossing and confusion
Related Relationship Types
Marriage Line
A solid horizontal line connecting two people represents a marriage or committed partnership
Cohabitation Line
A dotted line represents unmarried partners living together
Separation Line
A marriage line with one diagonal slash indicates separation
Divorce Line
A marriage line with two diagonal slashes indicates divorce
Annulment Line
A marriage line crossed out indicates an annulment
Multiple Marriages
Multiple horizontal lines show successive marriages
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I draw a engagement line in a genogram?
A dashed horizontal line represents an engagement or planned marriage. Used to show couples who are committed but not yet legally married
What does the engagement line indicate about family dynamics?
The engagement line notation helps clinicians and families understand the nature of the connection between family members. This visual representation makes it easier to identify patterns and dynamics in the family system.
Is the engagement line notation standardized?
Yes, genogram notation including the engagement line follows widely used genogram conventions, based on the notation described by Monica McGoldrick, Randy Gerson and colleagues. Using consistent notation helps clinicians and researchers read your genogram the same way.
When should I include dates with this relationship line?
Including dates (such as marriage date, separation date, or when the relationship began/ended) provides valuable context for understanding family history and timing of significant events. Add dates whenever the information is available and relevant.
Create Your Genogram
Map your family relationships with our intuitive genogram creator.
Download for iPhone, iPad & MacGenogram notation based on the conventions described by McGoldrick, Gerson and Petry in Genograms: Assessment and Treatment (W. W. Norton). Genogram Creator is an independent app and is not affiliated with or endorsed by the authors or the publisher.