Summary
Genograms are an important tool used by clinicians and therapists working with families, however; the use of genograms in research has not reached its full potential. In this working paper, we propose a methodology for using genograms as a research instrument. We propose a three step process which includes: 1) qualitative coding of transcripts, 2) superimposing of concepts on genograms, and 3) genogram comparison across families. Following this method of analysis, genograms can be used to identify common dynamics across families and illustrate how various family interactions lead to a variety of phenomena such as Elder Family Financial Exploitation (EFFE).

Summary
This article draws from structural functionalism, a controversial theory in family sociology, to analyze whether early 21st century families continue to have the two functions identified by Parsons (1955): the socialization of children, and the stabilization of adult personality through marriage. Analysis of current family patterns suggests that most families sustain Parsons’s two functions, although more today than in the past exhibit primarily one function. Research findings suggest that marriage may benefit both the socialization of children and stabilizing adult personality.