Living with a Veteran with Trauma: Impact on Family Functioning Using the Genogram as a Research Tool

Introduction Although the psychological impact of war on veterans, particularly the development of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), has been well documented, the long-term effects on their families have been less widely studied. Research suggests that veterans’ trauma can disrupt relationships and contribute to secondary/intergenerational trauma within the family. Objective This study uses genograms to explore how PTSD symptoms experienced by veterans have influenced family relationships over time, and to uncover patterns of intergenerational and systemic impact in families of Portuguese Overseas War veterans. Method A qualitative approach involving semi-structured interviews with 32 families (each comprising a veteran, their spouse, and at least one adult child) was used (n = 100). The data were synthesized into genograms to visually map family structure, relationship quality, and patterns of psychological distress. Cross-family analysis was then conducted to identify common relational themes. Results Families were clustered into four main impact groups: maximum negative impact, limited negative impact, no impact, and protective impact. These classifications reflect variations in family functioning, mental health symptoms, and relational patterns. In some families, the veteran's trauma appeared to affect multiple subsystems, while in others, spouses played a buffering/protective role. A fifth group was identified, with no consistent pattern. Conclusion Findings emphasize the complexity and variability of trauma transmission within families, highlighting both vulnerability and resilience. Using genograms proved effective in capturing systemic dynamics. These results emphasize the importance of adopting a family-systems approach in the clinical treatment of veterans affected by PTSD and suggest avenues for future research.