Psychotherapy High Wycombe Psychotherapy High Wycombe - Last updated 07 January 2026

DSM Reference Home

DSM-IV and DSM-IV-TR:

Malingering

This term applies to individuals who intentionally pretend to have symptoms of mental or physical illness to achieve financial or other gain or to avoid criminal conviction or unwanted duty. They may also malinger to facilitate escape from captivity or incarceration.

Also: factitious disorder, Ganser syndrome

Diagnostic & Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th edition. Washington, DC, APA, 1994

The online Diagnostic & Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders lists most of the major psychological disorders and illnesses and lists the criteria that must be fulfilled in order for a diagnosis to be made. This resource is not a substitute for proper professional psychiatric diagnosis.