Why Affinographs?

Abstract

One reason to consider affinographs is that graphic imaging methods have not kept pace with the changing family forms. An affinograph is an interdisciplinary method for imaging the dynamic family systems across cultures. The affinograph images are distinguished from other imaging methods in that they relate to a general definition of the human family system. In addition to imaging the static family structures, an affinograph provides images of relationships that accumulate through descent and affinal unions such as marriage, remarriage, civil unions, or informal unions. Affinographs could be applied in social work, counseling, family therapy, and in family science teaching and research in general.