The following characteristics may or may not be exhibited by a Munchausen by Proxy perpetrator.  These behaviors may be observed in any combination.  There is no "magic number" and no "magic diagnosis".    If you think there is cause for concern do your own investigating, ask questions, follow your instincts, and involve professional help whenever possible.  But DO NOT GIVE UP!  The lives of the innocent are at stake.

1.     MBP perpetrators are usually individuals with primary responsibility for the child.

2.             MBP perpetrators often present initially and on the surface as “normal,” “good” caretakers.

3.             MBP perpetrators are usually accomplished liars, deceivers, and manipulators.

4.             MBP perpetrators may appear to be overanxious, overprotective, mistaken, or deluded.  On closer observations, however, their concern is of a different quality.

5.             MBP perpetrators may have a background in a health profession, or an unusual degree of preoccupation with health or mental health.

6.             MBP perpetrators may seek attention from a variety of people.

7.             MBP perpetrators may deny all or part of what they have done, even when there is overwhelming evidence.

8.             MBP perpetrators do not necessarily stop their behavior when they are suspected or caught.  The behavior may change or the danger to the victim may increase.

9.             MBP perpetrators may add or change medical or mental health professionals (“doctor shop”) and facilities-or they may not.

10.        MBP perpetrators may have a personal history of symptom/illness exaggeration, falsification, or induction.

11.        MBP perpetrators’ mental health evaluations may be “normal.”

12.        MBP perpetrators may or may not have prior child protective services involvement.

13.        MBP perpetrators are usually the only ones consistently present at or in association with the onset of symptoms.  When they are absent, symptoms and illness are not reported, or may begin to improve.