Use of the genogram and ecomap in the assessment of family relationships of children in situations of vulnerability and violence

ABSTRACT Domestic violence can be understood as a factor that generates illness in victimized children, impacting health and social development. This study sought to understand family relationships and the support network of families living in social vulnerability and violence, using genogram and ecomap instruments. This is a descriptive and exploratory research, with a qualitative approach, in which eight parents/caregivers of children assisted by non-governmental organizations were interviewd. To systematize the results, content analysis was used, and the GenoPro program was used to prepare the genograms and ecomaps. The results showed the composition of families, the support networks, attitudes, feelings, and emotions connected to family dynamics and the potential of relationships. Families showed relational weaknesses, aggravated by financial difficulties. At the same time, the support network, added to the potentials identified in the family dynamics represented an important resource for protection. It is concluded that the genogram and the ecomap are effective instruments for the identification and understanding of cases of violence and can serve as a tool in the development of social actions, in the promotion of family health, and in the strengthening of public policies, helping to guarantee the rights to life and health of the child.