What Is Munchausen?
9. Is the Condition Genetic?
While a familial history of depression and other mental disorders can be due to genetic ties, Munchausen does not have the same connection. Factitious disorders are more behaviorally based. Links between personality and factitious disorders exist, but there is no evidence to suggest they are causal.
Psychological conditions that are hereditary may allow for an easier transition into Munchausen disorder, but that doesn’t mean they are the cause. Upbringing and abuse seem to be the main precursors for Munchausen development, and when coupled with pre-existing psychological conditions, patients can more easily deceive themselves. However, without further research and data, it is challenging to discern a genetic link or predisposition to this condition.
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