Proposed Framework for the Psychological Treatment of Munchausen by Proxy Survivors

Munchausen by Proxy abuse occurs when a caretaker with a psychiatric condition called Factitious Disorder Imposed on Another intentionally falsifies illness and/or disability in another, usually a mother falsifying illness or disability in her child. Optimal recovery from MBP abuse requires a variety of interventions with the survivor, with an emphasis on using accurate information to help the survivor better understand reality and develop a healthier self-narrative. The goals of this paper are to provide information about the psychological aspects of Munchausen by Proxy abuse and to propose a psychological treatment framework tailored to the needs of survivors. Components of the heuristic model, using the acronym STORIES, include Safety and Stabilization, Trauma Processing & Support, Obtaining Information; Rebuilding Trust and Relationships; Integration of Health and Well-Being; Empowerment and Self-Esteem, and Sustained Support and Follow-Up. The model can be used as a guide for mental health providers, child and adult welfare professionals, and legal experts within the field of maltreatment who are developing safety and treatment plans for MBP survivors.