They concluded that the increase in white matter may somehow provide these "super-liars" with ''the cognitive capacity to lie. While everyday lies are goal-directed — you don't want to hurt the feelings of your overweight spouse — pathological lies often seem purposeless. Sometimes the lies are even self-incriminating, making them that much more difficult to figure out. Compared to pathological liars, compulsive liars can get along pretty well in life, Ekman says. Fortunately, neither type of liar is common, according to Feldman and Ekman.
Ekman estimates fewer than 5 percent of people lie compulsively or pathologically. In Ekman's experience, most liars who are compulsive or pathological don't want to change enough to enter treatment. Usually they only do so when directed by court order, after they've gotten into trouble, he says. Or they do so after their lies have resulted in dire consequences such as bankruptcy, divorce, or loss of a career.
Little research exists on treatment options for liars. Counseling or psychotherapy may help, with a focus on how to reduce impulsivity.
Can you tell on first meeting that someone might be a troubled liar? That means their charm, a characteristic of liars, may have worked its devilish magic. If a new friend or acquaintance shows his colors as a compulsive or pathological liar, the mentally healthy thing to do is walk away, Ekman says.
Here are some strategies that can help you cope with a person in your life who lies pathologically:. If you know someone who is constantly lying to you, mental health treatment may be beneficial to them, as it can help them change their habits and treat any other underlying conditions they have. In the meantime, it can be helpful to you to set boundaries in your relationship with them, to protect your mental health. Learn the best ways to manage stress and negativity in your life. Your Privacy Rights.
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We and our partners process data to: Actively scan device characteristics for identification. I Accept Show Purposes. Table of Contents View All. Table of Contents. Pathological Lying vs.
Other Types of Lying. Mental Health Impact. Coping Strategies. Pathological Liar A pathological liar is someone who has no control over their lying, according to Daramus. Aimee Daramus, PsyD You'll feel confused around a person who lies pathologically, because you don't know what to believe. Trust vs. How to Stop Lying. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback!
A white lie, or a lie told to avoid hurt or ill-feelings in another person, is a common by-product of many social interactions. White lies are told without any ill-intent, and are generally considered to be harmless. Pathological lies are continuous, compulsive, complex, and can occur for no apparent reason.
This could include creating a completely false personal history, making up a fictional relationship with a celebrity, or claiming to be suffering from a dire illness. When further questioned, your loved one might give quick and detailed responses that only vaguely answer the question. Despite scepticism or frustration from others with the lack of truthfulness, pathological liars often display little concern or guilt about getting found out.
However, psychiatrists have found that pathological lying is often connected to other mental health conditions , particularly personality disorders. Some common conditions linked to pathological lying include:. Other factors may also influence the development of pathological lying.
For example, childhood trauma can result in the sufferer relying on lies to create a persona that can withstand the negative environment, a habit that can persist into adulthood. Some scientists also believe that different hormone levels, specifically higher levels of testosterone and lower levels of cortisol, may also play into whether a person becomes a pathological liar.
For adults, pathological lying can be a difficult condition to treat, as lying has often become habitual and automatic. This type of addiction, combined with the potential presence of other underlying mental health conditions, can complicate the desire for people who pathologically lie to seek treatment on their own. Friends and family can be a critical source of support and encouragement for people struggling with pathological lying.
If you are trying to have a conversation with a loved one about their lying, it is helpful to keep a few key points in mind:. Seeking treatment for pathological lying and potentially other underlying mental health conditions can be a daunting process. At The Dawn Wellness Centre and Rehab, we ensure a compassionate, safe, holistic treatment experience that helps people address the root causes of their condition while reaffirming and strengthening the positive parts of the self.
Our highly-individualised treatment plans meet the unique needs of each of our clients to offer the best outcomes.
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