Who Is a Pathological Liar? 11 Characteristics of a Pathological Liar

by Healthful Vitality · February 9, 2023

Healthful Vitality | 02/09/2023 | Who Is a Pathological Liar? 11 Characteristics of a Pathological Liar

The Definition of Pathological Lying: Pathological lying is a complex behavior in which a person consistently and compulsively lies, even when there is no apparent benefit to doing so. This type of lying is thought to be related to various psychological and neurological factors, including a lack of impulse control and childhood trauma. Pathological lying can cause significant problems in a person’s life, including strained relationships and a damaged reputation. Treatment typically involves a combination of psychotherapy and medication and is designed to help the person reduce their lying behavior and improve their overall quality of life. This article examines the questions: Who is a pathological liar? And what are the 11 characteristics of a pathological liar.

Who is a pathological liar?

A pathological liar is someone who consistently lies, often compulsively and uncontrollably, even when it is not necessary, or there is no apparent benefit to doing so. As a result, pathological lying is a complex behavior that is still not well understood but is thought to be related to various psychological and neurological factors.

The origin of pathological lying

The origin of pathological lying is not well understood. However, it is thought to be related to a combination of psychological, social, and biological factors. Pathological lying is considered a type of antisocial personality disorder, which is characterized by a disregard for the rights of others and a lack of empathy. Not to mention, some experts believe that childhood trauma or abuse may contribute to the development of pathological lying. In contrast, others suggest that it may be related to neurological factors, such as brain damage or abnormal brain activity.

Notably, mental health professionals have recognized the concept of pathological lying for over a century, with early descriptions appearing in the psychiatric literature in the late 1800s. However, the exact causes of the behavior and the underlying mechanisms that contribute to it are still poorly understood and require further research.

11 Characteristics of a Pathological Liar

Here are the 11 characteristics of a pathological liar:

1. Chronic lying

A pathological liar frequently tells lies without a clear motive or benefit.

2. Deception is unconscious

Pathological lying is often not done with intention but as a habit or unconscious behavior.

3. Lack of empathy

Pathological liars often show a lack of concern for the feelings of others and the impact their lies may have.

4. Excessive charm

They may use excessive charm or charisma to manipulate and deceive others.

5. Impulsiveness

They may lie impulsively and without thinking through the consequences.

6. Grandiose sense of self

Pathological liars may have a grandiose sense of self-importance and a need to be seen as superior or exceptional.

7. Difficulty forming close relationships

They may have difficulty forming close and meaningful relationships due to their tendency to lie and manipulate others.

8. Inability to admit to lying

Pathological liars often have difficulty admitting to lying, even when faced with evidence to the contrary.

9. Confabulation

They may confabulate or make up elaborate stories to fill memory gaps and have difficulty distinguishing between reality and fiction.

10. Anxiety and stress

Lying can cause significant anxiety and stress for the pathological liar.

11. Co-occurring disorders

Co-occurring disorders: Pathological lying can be associated with other mental health disorders, such as antisocial personality disorder, substance abuse, and mood disorders.

Pathological lying, An antisocial personality disorder

In fact, pathological lying is considered a type of antisocial personality disorder, also known as sociopathy. Another key point, pathological lying is characterized by a disregard for the rights of others and a lack of empathy. In general, people with this disorder often have difficulty forming and maintaining close relationships and may engage in criminal behavior and lying. While not all pathological liars are sociopaths, the two conditions often co-occur.

The causes of pathological lying

The exact causes of pathological lying are unknown. However, several theories attempt to explain the behavior. For example, some researchers believe that it may be related to a lack of impulse control, while others suggest that it results from childhood trauma or abuse. Including, some experts also believe neurological factors, such as brain damage or abnormal brain activity, may be involved.

Pathological lying: The problems in a person’s life

Pathological lying can cause significant problems in a person’s life, including strained relationships and a damaged reputation. For example, a pathological liar may consistently lie to friends, family members, and co-workers, leading to a breakdown in trust and a strained personal life. On the negative side, in some cases, the lying may even result in criminal consequences, such as fraud or embezzlement.

Indeed, diagnosis of pathological lying can be difficult, as the person may not know that they are lying and may even believe their own lies. Therefore, a mental health professional will typically conduct a thorough evaluation, including a clinical interview, psychological testing, and a review of the person’s medical history, to make a diagnosis.

Treatment for pathological lying

Treatment for pathological lying typically involves a combination of psychotherapy and medication. Psychotherapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), can help the person identify and change their thoughts and behaviors that contribute to their lying. Medications, such as mood stabilizers and antipsychotics, may also be prescribed to help control impulsivity and reduce anxiety and stress. Must be remembered, you need to consult a mental health professional before attempting any treatment for pathological lying.

The state of pathological lying

The state of pathological lying regarding recognition and treatment varies across countries and cultures. In some countries, pathological lying is considered a mental health disorder recognized by mental health professionals and treated through psychotherapy and medication. In other countries, it may not be recognized as a distinct disorder and may be treated as a symptom of another underlying mental health condition.

Overall, more research is needed to understand better the prevalence, causes, and treatments for pathological lying. This would help to improve the recognition and treatment of this behavior and improve the quality of life for those who engage in it.

Conclusion

In conclusion, pathological lying is a complex behavior that is not well understood but thought to be related to various psychological and neurological factors. It can cause significant problems in a person’s life. It is often associated with other antisocial personality disorders. Treatment typically involves a combination of psychotherapy and medication and can help the person to reduce their lying behavior and improve their overall quality of life.

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References:

https://www.medicinenet.com/pathological_liar_vs_a_compulsive_liar/article.htm

https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/signs-lying

https://www.cnn.com/2023/02/03/health/santos-lying-disorder-wellness/index.html

https://fherehab.com/learning/pathological-lying-disorders

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/pathological-liars

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Invention_of_Lying