How to Recognize Factitious Disorder

Factitious disorder is a mental illness in which a person fakes physical or mental symptoms of a disease. The person with factitious disorder fakes the disease for psychological reasons, not to get out of work or other responsibilities. Follow these steps to recognize factitious disorder.

Instructions

• 1

  Know that doctors don't really know what causes factitious disorder, but there are many theories. One theory is that a person with Factitious Disorder seeks attention because of something he feels he lacks or has lacked in childhood. This feeling can be entirely unconscious.

• 2

  Realize that a person with factitious disorder often lies about or exaggerates disease symptoms. He may undergo risky diagnostic tests or alter test outcomes to achieve special attention or sympathy.

• 3

  Acknowledge that a person with factitious disorder isn't motivated by financial gain or avoiding criminal prosecution. His motivation is solely attention.

• 4

  Recognize that a person with factitious disorder often has extensive knowledge of medical texts and terminology. A high percentage of nurses and healthcare workers are found among sufferers of factitious disorder.

• 5

  Note that people with factitious disorder may have many surgical scars, either from diagnostic tests or self-inflicted injuries. They often suffer from substance abuse and suicide attempts.

• 6

  Be aware that factitious disorder is often difficult to recognize because of dishonesty. If a doctor doesn't find any physical symptoms, he may refer the patient to a psychologist or psychiatrist for diagnosis.