Malingering

Definition

Malingering is the feigning, intentional production or significant exaggeration of physical or psychological symptoms, or intentional misattribution of genuine symptoms to an unrelated event or series of events when this is specifically motivated by external incentives or rewards such as escaping duty or work; mitigating punishment; obtaining medications or drugs; or receiving unmerited recompense such as disability compensation or personal injury damages award

Exclusions

• peregrinating patient
• Factitious disorders
• Bodily distress disorder
• Factitious disorder imposed on another
• Factitious disorder imposed on self
• Hypochondriasis

Index Terms