The friendship symbol—typically a teal or cyan line with decorative circles—represents platonic supportive bonds that may exist between family members or between family members and significant non-relatives. This symbol distinguishes warm, supportive relationships that lack romantic or obligatory family elements.
Friendship: Teal line with circles indicating platonic bond
While genograms primarily map family relationships, significant friendships can profoundly impact family systems. The friendship symbol documents:
In many communities, particularly LGBTQ+ communities, chosen family relationships carry the emotional weight and significance of biological family. Documenting these as friendships on genograms acknowledges their importance to the family system.
Friendship relationships on genograms help therapists identify:
Friendship: Platonic, voluntary, often peer-based
Close: Intimate family bond with role expectations
Two siblings might be both "close" (familial intimacy) AND "friends" (also enjoy each other's company platonically)