Sharon frequently causes diarrhea in her three-year-old daughter by feeding her spoiled milk and rotten eggs. When the child is repeatedly hospitalized, Sharon acts like a very worried and caring mother. Because Sharon is not playing the sick role and receives no obvious reward for her behavior, the most appropriate diagnosis is ____.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Factitious disorder imposed on another, also known as Munchausen syndrome by proxy, involves a caregiver causing illness or injury to someone else, typically a child, to gain attention or sympathy. Sharon's behavior fits this diagnosis as she causes her daughter's illness to appear caring and concerned.

Sharon Frequently Causes Diarrhea in Her Three-Year-Old Daughter by Feeding