malingering

Malingering is when a person intentionally fakes or exaggerates symptoms of illness or injury, often to achieve a specific goal like avoiding work, obtaining financial compensation, or gaining attention. It is not due to genuine medical or psychological issues, but rather a conscious effort to deceive others about their health. Healthcare professionals assess for malingering by looking for inconsistencies or signs that suggest the symptoms are not real. Recognizing malingering is important to ensure appropriate treatment and to prevent exploitation of resources.