Which instrument involves drawing a family tree across at least three generations to identify cross-generational transmission of patterns?

• A. Genogram
• B. MMPI
• C. MSI-R
• D. DAS

Answer: (A)

Drawing a genogram captures family structure and history across at least three generations using standardized symbols to show relationships, health conditions, and patterns of behavior. This approach makes cross-generational transmission visible by comparing generations, noting who was affected, at what ages, and how issues recur or change over time. The other tools serve different purposes: the MMPI assesses an individual’s current personality characteristics, while the MSI-R and the DAS focus on current marital or dyadic functioning rather than genealogical patterns. Genograms uniquely combine structure with historical detail, enabling you to trace how patterns may pass through generations.