How to Coach Yourself and Others Beware of Manipulation | Page 133

28. Feigning illness.
Unfortunately, some people use illness as a way of manipulating others. There are people who feign
small illnesses and symptoms on a small scale, and then there are people who suffer from Factitious
Disorder (DSM-IV), previously known as Munchausen's
Syndrome. Faking illnesses is the intentional production of false
and exaggerated physical symptoms designed to achieve an
ulterior motive. People who do this may be trying to avoid
responsibilities, have more leisure time, obtain medical benefits,
or are lazy enough to want someone else to do everything for
them.
If the person is persistently using this method, it is possible that
he or she needs medical help from a psychiatrist or psychologist
for Factitious Disorder. The difficulty for you lies in the fact that
a person suffering from this might actually have some illness but
can function fine most or all of the time despite the illness but
chooses to exaggerate its effects (also known as malingering).
If the disorder is causing them to behave this way, try not to be
judgmental. It is often developed as a way of reacting to stress
and has habituated into a pattern. The best thing if you suspect
this condition is to suggest that he or she sees a mental health
professional to deal with their worry and anxiety; don't be combative about their "faking illness".

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