The Role of Medical System in Munchausen by Proxy Abuse

Why would any parent lie about their child's health? Or worse, intentionally make their child sick?

In episode one of Criminal Psychology, our new four-part series on unusual crimes and unusual minds, we dive into a disorder that’s long been sensationalised in the media: Munchausen by Proxy – and ask: how do these parents get away with their lies? Can their behaviour ever be reformed?

Guests:

Brenda Bursch, PhDDirector, Pediatric Psychology in Outpatient Subspecialty Pediatrics ProgramProfessor of Clinical Psychiatry & Biobehavioral SciencesProfessor of Clinical PediatricsDavid Geffen School of Medicine,University of California, Los Angeles

Professor Jon JureidiniChild psychiatristResearch Leader, Robinson Research InstituteUniversity of Adelaide

Credits:

• Presenter/producer: Sana Qadar
• Senior producer: James Bullen
• Producer: Rose Kerr
• Executive producer: Petria Ladgrove
• Sound engineer: John Jacobs

Extra information:

Munchausen by Proxy: Clinical and Case Management Guidance

APSAC Advisor Volume 30, Issue 1- Munchausen by Proxy Special Issue

Psychological Treatment of Factitious Disorder Imposed on Another/Munchausen by Proxy Abuse

The mothers accused of poisoning their kids

Support resources:

Lifeline Australia 13 11 14