“Munchausen Syndrome by Proxy” as a Form of Child Abuse

Childhood is the age span comprising the period from birth to 18 years of age. A childneeds protection, suitable conditions and support forhealthy development. Although parents are primarily responsible for the provision of these conditions, they sometimes fail in their responsibility and the resulting unfavorable conditions might lead to neglect and abuse. Child neglect and abuse have short-term, long-term and permanent effects on children’s developmental areas and may occur in various forms. Munchausen Syndrome by Proxy (Factitious Disorder Imposed by Another) characterized by Meadow in 1977 is a form of child abuse where the adult responsible for the child subjects the child to unnecessary medical procedures by fabricating signs and symptoms of health problems. This form of abuse and the ensuing medical examinations, treatments and invasive procedures may lead to numerous permanent, sometimes fatal, consequences. This study aimed to identify the factors associated with Munchausen Syndrome by Proxy and the common characteristics of child victims and perpetrators of MSBP, which will be critical to the development of preventive efforts and provide guidance for future studies.