Severe PatternSafety Concern

Violence Relationship Symbol in Genograms

The violence symbol—a tight, intense zigzag line in red—represents relationships where physical aggression or violence has occurred. This is the most severe form of hostile relationship and requires immediate attention to safety planning before therapeutic exploration.

Safety First

If you or someone you know is experiencing violence, seek help immediately.

National DV Hotline: 1-800-799-7233

Violence: Tight red zigzag (more intense than hostile)

Understanding Violence in Genograms

The violence symbol documents relationships where physical aggression has occurred. This differs from the hostile symbol in intensity and the presence of physical harm or threat.

Clinical Protocol

When violence is documented on a genogram:

Safety planning must precede any other intervention
Assess current risk and protective factors
Document whether violence is historical or ongoing
Consider mandatory reporting requirements
Provide resources and safety information

Violence vs. Hostile vs. Conflict

Conflict: Disagreement, tension (dashed lines)
Hostile: Active antagonism, verbal aggression (zigzag)
Violence: Physical harm or threat (tight zigzag)

Related Symbols

Abuse (Physical)

Directional pattern showing perpetrator-victim

Hostile

Non-physical antagonism

Hostile Hate

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