Hurting for Love

Munchausen by Proxy Syndrome

Herbert A. Schreier and Judith A. Libow

Hardcover

May 21, 1993

ISBN 9780898621211

Price: $49.00

265 Pages

Size: 6" x 9"

order

This book offers the first comprehensive, detailed examination of Munchausen by Proxy syndrome (MBPS). Written by leading authorities, it covers all known clinical, medical, psychological, social, and legal aspects of the disorder, including detection, dynamics, treatment, and clinical management. An innovative theory of the disorder is delineated and extensive psychological test data presented to shed light on the cognitive and psychological makeup of mothers with MBPS. Also provided is a cogent analysis of the broader cultural context within which MBPS has developed as predominantly a disorder of women.

“A thoughtful, rigorous text that explores psychodynamic, systemic, and sociopolitical perspectives in its attempt to resolve the unusual paradoxes of the 'good mother' who abuses her children while seeming to care for them.”

—Contemporary Psychology

“A highly readable and fascinating review of all aspects of MBPS....The case descriptions are a real strength of the book, as they highlight the difficult nature of working with this population and keep the reader's interest. ..Professionals in mental health, primary health care, and the legal system will find this book extremely helpful when dealing with MBPS parents and their children. In particular, it is a 'must- read' for those professionals in a medical setting where MBPS is most likely to be identified.”

—Journal of Pediatric Psychology

About the Authors

Herbert A. Schreier, M.D., is Chief of Psychiatry at Children's Hospital Oakland in Oakland, California. He trained in child psychiatry at Albert Einstein College of Medicine, and was a Commonwealth Foundation Instructor in the Department of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School. His current clinical and research interests include community response to disasters, socially inept children, and the genetics and treatment of Tourette's Syndrome and bipolar disorders in childhood.

Audience

Mental health professionals, social workers, physicians, nurses, child protection professionals, legal practitioners, all who may come in contact with abused children and anyone interested in women's issues, child abuse, and medical and social history.