False Allegations of Child Physical Abuse: A Case of Münchausen by Proxy-like Syndrome?

Abstract

The diagnosis of factitious disorder by proxy is still under investigation. Few studies have researched the psychological status and potential underlying psychopathology of the perpetrator, as well as the impact on the child's development and the pathological reactions of rearing a child within the context of a distorted reality. In this article, we present the case of a 12-year-old boy where this diagnosis was suspected. Both he and his parents brought forth false allegations of repeated physical abuse induced by his schoolteacher. The parents presented with shared psychosis and the child presented with conduct disorder, factitious disorder, and emotional problems. We suggest that this case represents a Munchausen by proxy-like syndrome involving both the legal and medical systems. Hypotheses regarding the pathogenesis of symptoms in the child are noted, underscoring the differences between Munchausen by proxy syndrome appearing in infancy with that appearing in older children.

Keywords

Munchausen by proxy folie a deux child abuse

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