Accusations of FII in Therapy and Social Work - an expert's view
Published on September 20, 2026, this expert report by Cathleen Long—an Independent Social Worker, expert witness, and PhD candidate—examines the intersection of neurodivergence, child protection, and accusations of Fabricated or Induced Illness (FII). Drawing from over 30 years of professional experience across social care, health, education, and legal systems alongside her lived experience as an autistic person with ADHD, Long highlights growing concerns over how disabled and neurodivergent families are treated when FII, abuse, or neglect allegations arise.
The report provides case studies to illustrate the types of problems that occur and raises vital questions about professional suspicion, asking where the line is drawn between necessary, persistent parental advocacy and behaviour mischaracterised as problematic by social care and health authorities.
Read the report: