Deceased Symbol
An X drawn through a square or circle indicates the person is deceased
Standard genogram notation for deceased symbol
How to Use This Symbol
Used to show family members who have passed away, often with death date and cause noted
When to Use the Deceased Symbol
The deceased symbol is an essential part of standard genogram notation. Proper use of this symbol helps ensure your genogram can be understood by other clinicians, researchers, and family members.
Best Practices
- Always use consistent symbol sizes throughout your genogram
- Place symbols in the appropriate generational row
- Include relevant dates and information near the symbol
- Use standard line connections to show relationships
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the deceased symbol represent in a genogram?
An X drawn through a square or circle indicates the person is deceased
When should I use the deceased symbol?
Used to show family members who have passed away, often with death date and cause noted
Is the deceased symbol standardized across all genograms?
Yes, the deceased symbol is part of widely used genogram notation, based on the conventions described by Monica McGoldrick, Randy Gerson and colleagues. Using consistent symbols helps clinicians, researchers and family members read your genogram the same way.
Create Your Genogram
Use the deceased symbol and all standard symbols 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.