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Negative PatternTension

Conflict Relationship Symbol in Genograms

The conflict symbol—two dashed red lines—represents ongoing tension, disagreement, or discord between family members. Unlike the hostile zigzag which indicates active antagonism, conflict represents persistent friction that may not always be expressed openly but creates underlying tension in the relationship.

Conflict: Two dashed red lines

Understanding Conflict in Genograms

The conflict symbol documents relationships characterized by ongoing disagreement, competing interests, or unresolved issues. Unlike hostile relationships (zigzag), conflict may be more subdued—simmering rather than boiling over.

Conflict vs. Hostile

Conflict (dashed lines): Ongoing tension, disagreement, friction
Hostile (zigzag): Active antagonism, open warfare, expressed hostility

Common Sources of Family Conflict

  • Competing values or lifestyle differences
  • Unresolved past grievances
  • Financial disputes or inheritance issues
  • Parenting disagreements
  • In-law tensions
  • Sibling rivalry that persists into adulthood

Clinical Significance

Conflict patterns are clinically significant because they:

  • May escalate to hostile or violent dynamics
  • Often involve triangulation of other family members
  • Can repeat across generations
  • May mask underlying attachment or closeness

How to Use in GenogramAI

  1. 1Press E for Emotional Relationship tool
  2. 2Connect the two conflicting parties
  3. 3Select "Conflict" from the menu

Related Symbols

Hostile

More intense, active antagonism

Close-Hostile

Conflict combined with intimacy

FriendshipHostile

Document Family Tensions

Map conflict patterns to identify intervention points.

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