Child Abuse Research Today is a free monthly online journal that collates and summarizes the latest research about Child Abuse, including details on family violence, examinations, long-term effects, psychiatrics disorders.

A case of Munchausen syndrome by proxy with subsequent stalking behavior.

Reisner AD

Appalachian Behavioral Healthcare, Cambridge, OH 43725, USA. Reisnera@mh.state.oh.us

A case of Munchausen syndrome by proxy (factitious disorder by proxy) wherein the patient presented with symptoms of severe borderline personality disorder and questionable psychotic symptoms is discussed. This patient was also adjudicated for harassing and stalking a child protective services worker assigned to her case. Issues pertaining to possible feigning of psychotic symptoms were addressed in her inpatient treatment. Despite doubts concerning the veracity of some of her psychotic symptoms, the patient responded well to clozapine, and she was subsequently able to stay out of the psychiatric hospital for longer periods and make a reasonably good adjustment to living in a group home. After refusing to continue with clozapine therapy because of weight gain concerns, her adjustment declined.

Published 1 May 2006 in Int J Offender Ther Comp Criminol, 50(3): 245-54.
Full-text of this article is available online (may require subscription).

© 2005-2008 Child Abuse Research Today. All Rights Reserved.