Munchausen by Proxy: when parents hurt their kids

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 Consultation Liaison ServiceProfessor 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

Support resources:

Lifeline Australia 13 11 14