A Brief Review of Its Scientific and Legal Status
Authors:
Eric G. Mart - Highland Psychological Services, Manchester,
New Hampshire
Author
Note:
Correspondence concerning this article should be addressed
to Eric G. Mart, Ph.D., ABPP, Highland Psychological Services,
311 Highlander Way, Manchester, NH; E-mail: emart@mediaone.net.
Abstract:
Munchausen’s syndrome (factitious disorder) by proxy
is a diagnosis that has received increasing attention in recent
years. Despite numerous clinical case studies on the subject,
the scientific and legal status of this diagnosis remains
controversial. This article reviews scientific issues related
to this diagnosis and the response of the courts to testimony
regarding the syndrome. Suggestions are offered for fairer
and more accurate diagnosis and testimony in cases of medical
child abuse.
