Final answer:
The syndrome where mothers make their children ill or lie about their illness to gain attention is called Munchausen syndrome by proxy (MSBP) or factitious disorder imposed on another (FDIA), a serious mental health disorder and form of child abuse.
Step-by-step explanation:
The syndrome where mothers fabricate or induce illness in their child to gain sympathy and attention from others is known as Munchausen syndrome by proxy (MSBP), also referred to as factitious disorder imposed on another (FDIA). This is a serious mental health disorder and form of child abuse where a caregiver, usually a parent, deceives others into thinking their child is ill by exaggerating, fabricating, or inducing symptoms. MSBP is harmful to the child and can lead to unnecessary medical interventions.
For example, an MSBP case may involve the mother reporting false symptoms to a doctor, manipulating medical tests, or physically harming the child to produce symptoms. The goal is to gain attention, sympathy, or validation from medical professionals or other individuals. Due to the deceptive nature of MSBP, it can be very difficult to diagnose and treat.
Understanding Munchausen syndrome by proxy is vital as it emphasizes the importance of careful assessment by healthcare professionals to protect the welfare of the child. If left untreated, MSBP can lead to severe health problems or even death for the child, and significant psychological distress for all involved.