Munchausen syndrome by proxy is a parenting disorder where a parent either concocts or causes an illness in their child. This disorder is distinct from other parenting issues primarily because the perpetrator is nearly always the mother, who often seems to be an exemplary parent. Typically, there is little evidence of family conflict, and the harmful actions are deliberate, rather than impulsive or a reaction to the child's behavior.The more common form of this disorder involves fabricating an illness. Here, a parent might falsely claim their child is suffering from a condition, such as seizures, even when the child is healthy. In some instances, a parent might assert that their child has blood in their urine, presenting manipulated samples where they have added their own blood.The less common, yet more perilous, form involves inducing illness. This may include a parent harming their child by injecting air under the skin or giving them excessive salt to make them ill. Tragically, some children have died due to such abuse.There is debate over the prevalence of Munchausen syndrome by proxy. Some suggest it is more widespread than believed, while others argue it is rare or even nonexistent. Nonetheless, documented cases confirm its existence, though its frequency remains uncertain. The psychological roots of Munchausen syndrome by proxy are also unclear. Some parents may seek attention, while others have histories of mental illness or abuse. The reasons behind this disorder likely vary from case to case.The term "Munchausen syndrome by proxy" was introduced by British pediatrician Roy Meadow in a 1977 report on two cases. Alternative names include fabricated illness by proxy, factitious disorder by proxy, Meadow syndrome, and Polle syndrome, named after Baron Munchausen's fictional child who died in infancy.
