Using genograms as a research method to discuss intergenerational processes in families of Holocaust survivors: an interpretative phenomenological analysis.

Background

There is a lack of research into idiographic experiences of intergenerational trauma. Genograms are used in psychological interventions, but research into genograms as a research method is needed.

Objective

We sought to understand how descendants of Holocaust survivors experience the use of genograms as a visual research method to discuss intergenerational processes.Method: Seven participants described their experiences of a genogram interview in a semi-structured interview. Interpretative phenomenological analysis was used to analyse data from the semi-structured interview.

Results

Five group experiential themes were identified: 'The legacy of prior experiences' - the experiences that participants brought to the genogram interview, and how they were able to engage with the process; 'Scaffolding sensitive and nuanced discussions' - the material and relational aspects of the genogram fostered safety while situating participants at the heart of the discussion; 'The importance of telling our stories' - the telling of rich and unedited stories steeped in beauty and strength; 'The impact of sharing stories' - participants felt vulnerable while revealing threads that ran through the generations, and also empowered by connecting with their heritage; and 'Reverberations of storytelling' - the psychological impact of the genogram in a broader journey of discovery.

Conclusions

Genograms elicit rich, contextualized data. Future research could investigate genograms with other ethnically minoritized groups recovering from the effects of genocide, using narrative approaches.