The TV show The Act brought to light the shocking story of Gypsy Rose Blanchard, a young woman whose life was controlled by her mother, Dee Dee Blanchard, who faked Gypsy’s illnesses. This real-life case sparked conversations around Munchausen syndrome by proxy, a rare and disturbing disorder. But what is this condition, and how does it impact patients? Yazhini Srivathsal, MD, a psychiatrist at Banner Behavioral Health, explained factitious disorder imposed on another, its signs and the challenges involved in diagnosis and treatment.
What is factitious disorder imposed on another?
Formerly known as Munchausen syndrome by proxy, factitious disorder imposed on another is a mental health condition where an individual, often a caregiver, intentionally causes or fabricates illness in another person, usually a vulnerable victim. The victim is made to appear sick while the perpetrator assumes the role of a concerned caregiver. The goal is to deceive medical professionals into believing the victim requires medical attention, even when there is no genuine illness.
Unlike malingering, where someone fakes illness for personal gain (such as money or avoiding work), factitious disorder imposed on another does not involve clear external rewards for the perpetrator. Instead, it is driven by a psychological need to control or be involved in the care of a victim, often due to a deeper mental health issue.
Who is affected by factitious disorder imposed on another?
The primary perpetrators of this disorder are biological parents, particularly mothers.
However, it can also affect caregivers such as fathers, other family members or even non-family caregivers. The victims are most often young children, usually under the age of 4, but older individuals—especially the elderly, those with disabilities or people who are dependent on others for care—can also fall victim. In rare cases, even pets can be victims of this abuse.
Perpetrators may go to extreme lengths to fabricate medical histories or even cause physical harm to the victim. This can include altering medical records, contaminating lab samples or performing harmful actions like injecting harmful substances into the victim’s body.
What causes factitious disorder imposed on another?
The exact cause of factitious disorder imposed on another remains unclear. Research suggests that perpetrators may have experienced trauma or abuse in childhood, and they might have other underlying mental health conditions. These experiences could contribute to the development of this disorder, though further study is needed to fully understand the causes.
Can factitious disorder imposed on another be treated?
Diagnosing and treating factitious disorder imposed on another can be challenging. Since it’s rare and often difficult to identify, the condition may go unnoticed until a direct witness observes the abuse. When suspected or diagnosed, the first priority is always to ensure the safety of the victim.
Treatment for the perpetrator typically involves mental health therapy, though this can be difficult because many perpetrators deny any wrongdoing or manipulation. Confrontation may not always be productive, and treatment often focuses on managing the perpetrator’s condition rather than seeking a "cure."
How common is factitious disorder imposed on another?
Factitious disorder imposed on another is extremely rare. Due to its complex nature and difficulty in diagnosis, it’s hard to determine how prevalent it truly is. There is no evidence to suggest that the disorder is hereditary, though certain risk factors may increase its likelihood.
Can you have factitious disorder imposed on yourself?
Yes, this condition exists when someone fakes their own illness, known as factitious disorder imposed on self (formerly Munchausen syndrome). People with this disorder will intentionally produce or exaggerate medical symptoms to assume the "sick role" and seek unnecessary treatment. Unlike malingering, there is no personal gain involved in these actions.
Recognizing and responding to factitious disorder imposed on another
If you suspect that someone is the victim of factitious disorder imposed on another, it’s important not to confront the caregiver directly. Instead, report your concerns to local authorities or a child welfare organization. For guidance, you can reach out to organizations like Childhelp or the National Adult Protective Services Association (NAPSA).
If you or someone you know is struggling with a mental health disorder like factitious disorder, Banner Behavioral Health is here to help. Our team of experts provides compassionate care to individuals and families dealing with complex conditions.
Recommended reading
- How to Help a Friend Who Is In an Abusive Relationship
- Enmeshment: What to Do When Boundaries Are Blurry in a Relationship
- How to Recognize and Deal with the Narcissists in Your Life
