Munchausen syndrome by proxy in false allegations of child sexual abuse: legal
implications.
L. H. Barker and R. J. Howell,
Bull. Amer. Acad. Psychiatry & the Law
22(4): 499-510, 1994.
A review of the literature regarding Munchausen syndrome by proxy in relation to allegations of
child sexual abuse is presented. Problems in the diagnosis of Munchausen syndrome by proxy in
these cases can be the result of a failure to consider that the allegations may be false, legal issues
surrounding the child's testimony, and other biases in professional and legal attitudes towards
allegations of sexual abuse. A proposal for a more stringent standard of care is made. Treatment of
Munchausen syndrome by proxy is best effected by case management, with the person who made
the diagnosis managing the case throughout the treatment. This person should act as liaison to relay
information between all the parties involved. [References: 36]