What does the Family Tree Questionnaire specifically help to identify?

The Family Tree Questionnaire is primarily designed to assess the incidence of alcohol-related problems within a family. This tool helps counselors and therapists map out the prevalence of substance use, particularly alcohol use disorders, across generations within a family system. By identifying patterns of alcohol problems, practitioners can gain insights into the familial context that may contribute to an individual’s own substance use issues.

This understanding is crucial for developing effective treatment plans that consider not just individual behaviors but also the broader family dynamics and historical context of substance use. Recognizing these patterns allows counselors to address not only the individual in treatment but also to inform family involvement in recovery processes, potentially leading to more comprehensive support for the individual and their loved ones.