PSYCHIATRY UPDATE 2017

Essentials of Malingering Assessment

Douglas Mossman, MD, University of Cincinnati

Malingering is intentional lying with an external incentive, such as avoiding work or obtaining drugs. Dr. Mossman gave 2 examples of malingered posttraumatic stress disorder and psychosis. Although lying cannot be detected by careful examination of facial expressions or gestures, a detailed evaluation can reveal malingering. An individual who is malingering psychosis may describe symptoms, such as “I talk to voices all the time,” but clinicians never observe such behavior. Signs of malingering include using “textbook” terms for symptoms; inconsistencies in their history or symptoms; sudden onset of delusions; exaggerating; and being unpleasant, dishonest, or demanding.

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