This important book reviews the current state of knowledge of Munchausen's syndrome by proxy, a type of child abuse which causes wide concern. Two main areas are covered, which will be of particular interest: new directions in research, and treatment of the perpetrator in and outside the family. The book also considers the ethical and legal issues raised by this problematic behavior, which involves many different types of professionals and has a heavy cost not only for services but also for victims and perpetrators.

A 20-year overview, A. Bentovim; international perspectives on Munchausen's syndrome by proxy, R. Brown and M.D. Feldman; child abuse specific to the medical system, J. Jureidini and T. Donald; the extraordinary case of Mrs. H., E.V. Welldon; Munchausen's syndrome by proxy - a perspective from primary care, M.J. Bannon and Y.H. Carter; the presentation and natural history of Munchausen's syndrome by proxy, M.C.B. Plunkett and D.P. Southall; the detection of Munchausen's syndrome by proxy, M.P. Samuels; assessment of abusing families, D.P.H. Jones and C. Newbold; the role of the guardian ad litem, S. Pizzey; the social work role in Munchausen's syndrome by proxy, J. Gray; Munchausen's syndrome by proxy - the legal perspective, D. Taylor and M. Nicholls; risk assessment, M. Eminson; treatment of perpetrators, K. Bluglass; treatment and outcome for victims, I. Mitchell; ethical and public policy issues in the management of Munchausen's syndrome by proxy (MSBP), G. Adshead; current challenges in the management of perpetrators, D. Brooke and G. ADshead; new directions in research and service development, C. Bools.