Munchausen by Proxy: when parents hurt their kids

27/06/2025 31 min
Munchausen by Proxy: when parents hurt their kids

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Episode Synopsis


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 in Outpatient Subspecialty Pediatrics ProgramProfessor of Clinical Psychiatry & Biobehavioral SciencesProfessor of Clinical PediatricsDavid Geffen School of Medicine,University of California, Los AngelesProfessor Jon JureidiniChild psychiatristResearch Leader, Robinson Research InstituteUniversity of AdelaideCredits:Presenter/producer: Sana QadarSenior producer: James BullenProducer: Rose KerrExecutive producer: Petria LadgroveSound engineer: John JacobsExtra information:Munchausen by Proxy: Clinical and Case Management GuidanceAPSAC Advisor Volume 30, Issue 1- Munchausen by Proxy Special IssuePsychological Treatment of Factitious Disorder Imposed on Another/Munchausen by Proxy AbuseThe mothers accused of poisoning their kidsSupport resources:Lifeline Australia 13 11 14