This book covers Munchausen and Munchausen by Proxy (MBP) though the terms have recently changed. The 2013 DSM-V--the update to the American Psychiatric Association's (APA) diagnostic and classification tool--has classified both Munchausen and MBP as "Factitious Systematic Abuse." While thought to have occurred primarily with children and their caregivers, recent research shows a more widespread problem: such medical abuse to spouses, the disabled, the elderly--even pets. Many involve repeat and long-term instances of hospital and medical fraud. This book covers the syndrome itself, interviewing and investigative aspects, victimology, as well indicators in the event of homicide and death.
About the Author: Kathryn A. Artingstall, BS, CAHSO, CHSSO, is currently the Security Manager for Florida Hospital-Winter Park. She serves as the chairperson for the Florida Hospital Security Safe Environment Committee and provides support for security subcommittees on Security Operations/Standards, Emergency Management/Safety and Training. She is the current chairperson for the International Association of Healthcare Safety and Security (IAHSS)-Central Florida East Chapter and a member of ASIS International. She earned a BS in Interdisciplinary Social Science from Florida State University.
Ms. Artingstall is a retired Orlando Police Officer and has extensive background in law enforcement with more than 35 years of experience. She is presently an Administrative Deputy Sheriff for the Orange County, Florida Sheriff's Office. Kathryn has received trained in the following areas: crimes against children, sex crimes, traffic, homicide investigation, interviews and interrogations, crisis intervention, missing persons, computer crimes, violent crimes, domestic violence, stalking, elder abuse, and workplace violence prevention, among others. During her law enforcement career, she was a Patrol Officer, Detective and Court Deputy, having worked in the areas of patrol, crimes against children, economic crimes, and domestic violence. She is the recipient of numerous law enforcement awards of excellence.
Her previous book Practical Aspects of Munchausen by Proxy and Munchausen Syndrome Investigations (CRC Press, 2004) received acclaim as an innovative, formative investigative resource relating to FDP as a criminal element. Her work has been published in the FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin, Law and Order Magazine and Fire Engineering Magazine. She has appeared in numerous local, national and international media programs educating the public on the subject of Factitious Disorder by Proxy as an abuse delivery system.
Ms. Artingstall is an accomplished researcher, lecturer, educator, consultant, and author and has provided FDP criminal and civil case analysis nationally. She is a highly motivated advocate of victim protection and previously qualified as an expert witness on the subject of child abuse.
