What is factitious disorder?

Factitious disorder is characterized by an individual intentionally producing or exaggerating symptoms of illness or injury in order to assume the role of a sick person. This deliberate action is often motivated by a psychological need for attention, sympathy, or support, rather than any external incentives such as financial gain or avoidance of responsibility, which distinguishes it from malingering. Individuals with factitious disorder may go to great lengths to create or feign symptoms, which can lead to unnecessary medical evaluations and treatments.

The other options do not accurately capture the essence of factitious disorder. A fear of having an illness pertains to illness anxiety disorder, while unexplainable symptoms align more with somatic symptom disorder. Social isolation might contribute to various mental health issues but does not specifically describe factitious disorder. The key element of intentional symptom fabrication is what makes option B the correct choice.