Family Snapshots: A Descriptive Classroom Exercise in Memory and Insight

TitleFamily Snapshots: A Descriptive Classroom Exercise in Memory and Insight
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2008
AuthorsSamuel T. Gladding, Elizabeth Cox
JournalFamily Journal
Volume16
Issue4
Pagination381-383
ISSN10664807
Abstract

"Family Snapshots" are 100-words-or-less descriptive memories of times in the lives of families that highlight poignant moments. They complement other exercises within a family counseling course, including the use of genograms. Modeled after the Washington Post Magazine's series "Life Is Short: Autobiography as Haiku," these snapshots give writers awareness and insight because of their focus on telling a story rather than being didactic. Family snapshots have the potential for use in family counseling and in academic courses for family therapists. Examples of family snapshots are given along with interpretations of, reactions to, and limitations of this technique.

Short TitleFamily Snapshots