Munchausen by Proxy (MBP),
a.k.a. Factitious Disorder by Proxy,
Munchausen by Proxy Syndrome, and Munchausen Syndrome by Proxy
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Formula for MBP Case SuccessLOUISA J. LASHER, M.A.1. CURRENT, CORRECT SKILLS BASED MBP EDUCATION is the foundation upon which all case activities rest. Many professionals, including those who are highly regarded in their own areas of expertise, have misconceptions and incorrect information about how to identify and manage suspected or confirmed Munchausen by Proxy (MBP) maltreatment cases. It is counter-productive and dangerous attempt to discuss, formulate strategy, or make decisions about suspected or confirmed MBP cases without involved professionals coming from the same, correct MBP education base.2. A THOROUGH AND APPROPRIATE MBP MALTREATMENT INVESTIGATION by or with the assistance of a professional who has extensive and credible MBP knowledge and experience. 3. A CASE SPECIFIC, MULTIAGENCY-MULTIDISCIPLINARY TEAM (MMT) to review information, assist in decision making, and make recommendations throughout the case process from the time of MBP maltreatment suspicion. This is not the same as a permanent local child maltreatment or hospital team; this team is composed wholly or primarily of professionals currently or formerly involved with the particular family. 4. AN MBP EXPERT CONSULTANT to provide assistance such as initial and ongoing MBP education (on site or via telephone conference call), review presently available information to validate MBP maltreatment suspicion and prepare initial impressions and recommendations, guide the investigation and MBP maltreatment confirmation/disconfirmation process, continue to review incoming information, provide on site technical assistance, prepare final opinion and recommendations, work with attorneys in preparing the case, and other related activities. 5. AN MBP EXPERT WITNESS to educate the court regarding MBP maltreatment, relate education to the case, and provide opinion and recommendations. The MBP Expert Witness may be the same as the MBP Expert Consultant. MBP cases will likely not be won without this kind of testimony by a credible MBP professional. Other professionals will likely be needed to testify as appropriate within their specialty areas. 6. AN ATTORNEY WHO IS CORRECTLY EDUCATED REGARDING MBP AND IS PREPARED FOR COURT AND RELATED ACTIVITIES. No matter how strong the case, MBP victims cannot and will not be protected without an attorney who takes the time to become MBP educated, is involved as a team player with involved staff and experts, and is fully prepared. Louisa is available to provide MBP maltreatment training, case consultation, technical assistance, and expert witness services in an objective manner (no partiality to either side) and in the best interest of the child or children involved. References are available upon request. Last Revised: 10/23/2003 |
copyright 2000-2006 Louisa J. Lasher | louisalasher@mindspring.com | web design by Cyber Studios |
