ABSTRACT
A powerful intervention is to chart family transactions as a kind of map. Maps describe the sequence of in-session behavior of all family members at five crucial levels: (1) observed behaviors; (2) feelings occurring in the interactional context; (3) interpretations of others' behavior (especially projections); (4) self-image and self-esteem beliefs emerging within the interaction; and (5) repetitions of family-of-origin patterns. Charts are also circular; the end point of a pattern is usually the relief of the feeling or need that started it. Charting is invaluable whenever acting-out, complaining, repetitive patterns, arguing, getting lost in emotion, or narcissistic vulnerability dominate sessions.
