The Munchausen Syndrome by Proxy as a Group Phenomenon

Only through the perspective of clinical social psychology is it possible to perceive and analyze pathological group processes. With this new perspective, the "MSbP as a group phenomenon" in the field of autism is examined and presented as an example. By analyzing it becomes clear that - MSbP occurs much more frequently than previously assumed. - Pathological behavior can be publicly carried out within group structures and still remain undetected for decades. - the distribution of individual motives and actions among different actors within different subgroups has a stabilizing and legitimizing effect. - The role of the perpetrator in the abuse is not limited to the primary caregivers. - It is possible that the child could be harmed against the parents actual will. www.b-j-schmidt.net