Psychotherapy for Munchausen syndrome by proxy.

Abstract

The management of a case of Munchausen syndrome by proxy is described. Possible indications for individual interpretive psychotherapy in child abuse are given.

Spitting in the ear: a falsified disease using video evidence

“…11 Although there may be no evidence of psychiatric illness in the mother, a common finding in the Meadow's paper, 12 psychotherapy has been used with some success for this condition. 13 In the experience of Mra et al, Bath et al and our own study, the end result is usually the removal of the child from the mother and placement under foster care.…”

Munchausen Syndrome by Proxy

“…The victims can be newborns, teenagers, or adults.3 They typically undergo long hospitalizations and frequent outpatient and emergency department visits.1 10 In one report, a child spent 43% of his life in hospital.10 In addition, they spend an unusually long time with their mothers and remain out of school and away from social contacts. 3 The repetitive abuse may continue even after the death of the index child and despite the appropriate referrals.4610-'5 Cessation of symptoms occurs only when the child is fully separated from the mother.…”

Factitious Disorder by Proxy and the Abuse of a Child with Autism

“…It is not surprising, therefore, that published accounts of successful interventions are rare. Nicol and Eccles (1988) describe one case where the mother eventually admitted to having induced severe symptoms in her daughter as a result of salt poisoning. This case took 12 months to diagnose during which time the mother denied any responsibility.…”