Definitions and Overview
What is factitious disorder
A mental health condition where people fake symptoms for attention or care
What are people with factitious disorder trying to do
Appear ill, make themselves ill, or harm themselves
Why might someone seek treatment from many hospitals
To continue deception or avoid being discovered.
What is factitious disorder imposed on another
When someone falsely claims another person is ill or causes illness in them
What is known about the cause of factitious disorder
The cause is unkown
What is another name for factitous disorder
Munchausen syndrome
How do people with this disorder handle their deception
They work hard to cover up their lies
Why might someone avoid doctors talking to family members
To prevent others from discovering the truth
What was the previous name for this condition
Munchausen syndrome by proxy
What factors may contribute to the disorder
Mental health issues and stressful life experiences
How might people create the appearance of illness
By faking symptoms, getting sick on purpose, or self harm
What happens even when there is no reward
They may continue their behavior
What kind of medical care do they often want
Frequent testing or risky procedures
Who is most often affected
A child, usually harmed by a parent or caregiver
What is one childhood risk factor
Trauma such as abuse or neglect
What is factitious disorder NOT motivated by
External or material rewards
What type of knowledge may individuals have
They may have a deep knowledge of illness and medical terms
What might physical evidence include
Many surgical scars or signs of procedures
Why is this form especially serious
It is a form of abuse
What is one major complication
Injury or death from self-caused conditions or unnecessary treatment
Why might people not realize they have a mental health issue
They may not know why they behave this way or see it as a disorder
What kind of symptoms are often reported
Vague or inconsistent symptoms
What social pattern is common during hospital stays
Having few visitors
What danger does it create
The person may be harmed or receive unnecessary medical care
Why is prevention difficult
Because the exact cause is not known