A Fundamental Guide To Factitious Disorder

Causes Of Factitious Disorder

An exact cause of factitious disorder is not known, though research suggests psychological factors and extremely stressful experiences come into play. However, some of the factors that increase an individual’s risk of developing factitious disorder include having suffered a severe illness when growing up or experienced trauma in childhood, such as physical, sexual, or psychological abuse. These individuals may also have poor self-esteem, lost a loved one due to illness or abandonment, possess a heightened desire to be associated with doctors or hospitals, or may be employed in healthcare. Adults who have been previously ill and enjoyed the attention it brought may also be at an increased risk, as are those individuals who suffer from depression or personality disorders.