Title

Identifying and Responding to Munchausen Syndrome by Proxy

Abstract

Munchausen Syndrome by Proxy is an unusual form of child abuse in which the mother falsifies illness in her child by simulating and/or producing illness. The syndrome is found in all socioeconomic groups. The father is characteristically uninvolved and passive, yet supportive of the mother. The age of patients ranges up to 8 years, but most of the fatalities are in children under that age. Consequences of the syndrome may include frequent hospitalizations, painful tests, potentially harmful treatment, and death. The article includes symptoms and suggested professional actions.

Department(s)

Childhood Education and Family Studies

Document Type

Article

DOI

https://doi.org/10.1080/0300443951060114

Keywords

diagnosis and treatment, parental characteristics, socioeconomic groups, Warning signs

Publication Date

1-1-1995

Journal Title

Early Child Development and Care

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