The Alarming Rise of Factitious Disorder: When People Fake Illness Online
2025-02-25

Mamamia
Meet the individuals who fabricate illnesses for attention and sympathy, a phenomenon known as factitious disorder. From fake hospital stays to concocted health emergencies, these people manipulate others for emotional support. With the rise of social media, this issue has become increasingly prevalent, raising concerns about mental health and online exploitation. As we delve into this dark world, we explore the motivations behind this behaviour and the impact on those affected. Key terms: factitious disorder, Munchausen syndrome, online manipulation.