Munchausen syndrome
Munchausen syndrome is a psychological disorder where a person deliberately pretends to be ill or feigns symptoms to gain attention and sympathy. Individuals with this condition may go to great lengths, such as fabricating medical histories or even harming themselves, to create the appearance of illness.
This syndrome is named after Baron Münchhausen, a fictional character known for telling exaggerated tales about his adventures. Unlike Munchausen syndrome by proxy, where a caregiver fabricates illness in someone else, Munchausen syndrome focuses on the individual’s own health. Treatment often involves psychological therapy to address underlying issues.