Mixed Pattern

Distant-Hostile Relationship Symbol in Genograms

The distant-hostile symbol—a dashed gray line combined with a zigzag—represents relationships characterized by emotional distance punctuated by hostility when contact occurs. These are the "we don't talk, and when we do, we fight" dynamics.

Distant-Hostile: Dashed line (distant) + zigzag (hostile)

Understanding Distant-Hostile Dynamics

The distant-hostile pattern represents relationships where:

Regular contact has been reduced or avoided
When contact occurs, it quickly becomes hostile
There's no warm middle ground—only absence or conflict
May represent a step toward eventual cutoff

Common Presentations

Estranged siblings who fight at family gatherings
Divorced parents who can barely co-parent
Adult children and parents with unresolved issues
In-law relationships that have deteriorated

Related Symbols

Distant

Distance without hostility

Cutoff

Complete disconnection

Fused-Hostile Indifferent

Document Mixed Patterns

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