Factitious Disorder

Factitious Disorder

A psychological disorder where a person pretends to be sick or pretends that someone else is sick for the sake of attention or sympathy.

Intention in Factitious Disorder

The motivation behind factitious disorder is emotional gratification, not for financial gain or excused absences.

Gypsy Rose and Dee Dee Blanchard Case

A notable example of factitious disorder imposed upon another, involving deceit about serious illnesses, leading to multiple unnecessary medical interventions.

Amanda Riley's Cancer Journey

An instance of factitious disorder where the individual shared a fabricated cancer story on social media, seeking sympathy and attention.

Self Harm in Factitious Disorder

Engaging in self-harm acts for the sake of gaining sympathy and attention.

Occupational Impacts of Factitious Disorder

Includes disruptions in health management, decreased independence in activities of daily living (ADLs), education, work performance, and social participation.

Play & Leisure Impacts

Decreased participation in activities and poor relationships due to the desire to appear sick.

Malingering vs. Factitious Disorder

Malingering involves faking illness for external benefits (like avoiding work) whereas factitious disorder is not motivated by external rewards.

Running from Reality

Isolation and decreased social participation as individuals with factitious disorder seek sympathy.

Financial Distress in Factitious Disorder

Experiencing financial difficulties due to expensive healthcare costs and unnecessary medical purchases.