ABSTRACT
Although the MFG's strength is in identifying historical themes, individual development cannot be overlooked. Noting deviations from normative family development, the third component of the MFG is a Time Line. Developmental, environmental, interpersonal, and life cycle transitions can be visually portrayed and identified on a Time Line. The Time Line provides a simple method for examining developmental and transitional issues, both individual and family, that often are left out of the genogram. As in the case of the Family Map, clinicians can choose to create a series of Time Lines as they construct the Focused Genograms, or they can choose to maintain one master Time Line. In this chapter we discuss the use and function of the Time Line and the application of the Time Line to exploring multiple lines of development.
