All people lie from time to time. Lying or telling half-truths is common in everyday life. People may tell “white lies” to preserve privacy, avoid punishments, or protect others’ feelings. While most people avoid lying as much as possible, many are not always completely honest.
While the vast majority of people tell minor lies from time to time, some people struggle with pathological lying. Pathological lying is a persistent pattern of dishonesty that can interfere with relationships and other aspects of daily functioning.
This article will explore what pathological lying is and what treatment is available to address it. You will learn:
- The signs of a pathological liar
- If pathological lying is a mental health condition
- What treatments are available to address pathological lying
- Where to find comprehensive mental health treatment
If you or someone you love struggles with pathological lying or a mental health condition, you are not alone. Contact the intake specialists at First Step Behavioral Health to learn about our programs. You may also reach out with questions or to schedule an intake appointment.
What is Pathological Lying?
A psychiatrist named Anton Dellbruck recognized pathological lying in 1851. He first used the term “pseudologia fantastica” to describe lying compulsively.
The term “pathological lying” refers to a persistent pattern of lying behaviors. Pathological liars may lie excessively. They may struggle to control their impulse to lie.
Pathological liars may embellish their stories or create untrue events. They might also be deceptive about their own behaviors and engage in other types of lying.
Excessive or compulsive lying can harm a person’s mental, physical, and social health. Pathological liars may have difficulties maintaining healthy relationships or keeping a job. They may put themselves or others at risk or cause significant stress for those around them.
According to some mental health experts, a person must meet several criteria to be considered a pathological liar. These criteria include:
- Lying five or more times a day
- Lying every day
- Lying daily for six months or longer
- Lying compulsively, even when there is no apparent reason to do so (such as to avoid punishment)
Compulsive lying can lead to serious social consequences. People who lie may suffer consequences, and their lying can significantly impact others.
What are the Signs of Pathological Lying?
While most people engage in “white lying” from time to time, pathological liars engage in habitual lying. But how can you recognize the signs of pathological lying?
Some of the signs that someone is a pathological liar include:
- Telling elaborate stories that have unlikely or impossible details
- Lying even when they do not stand to gain anything
- Lying when it could cause themself or another person harm
- Not feeling remorseful about their lies
- Continuing to lie even when it causes harm
People who lie pathologically may be unable to control their impulse to lie. This can make it very challenging to maintain a healthy relationship.
If you have someone in your life who engages in pathological lying, you must take steps to protect yourself. Some things you can do to deal with a pathological liar include:
- Setting boundaries and maintaining them
- Expecting the person to lie to you
- Changing the subject or leaving the conversation once you recognize a lie
- Avoiding arguments
- Not taking it personally
Maintaining a long-term relationship with a pathological liar can be very challenging. If you struggle with a loved one’s lying, seek counseling or other forms of support to help you manage this situation.
Is Pathological Lying a Mental Health Condition?
Pathological lying is not a formal mental health diagnosis. However, it can be a symptom of several personality disorders, including:
- Antisocial personality disorder
- Narcissistic personality disorder
- Borderline personality disorder
Personality disorders are mental disorders that affect a person’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. The symptoms of a personality disorder can affect a person’s relationships, health, and daily functioning.
Is There Treatment for Pathological Lying?
People who struggle with pathological lying may benefit from proper diagnosis and treatment for a personality disorder. Personality disorder treatment typically consists of:
- Talk therapy, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
- Education about personality disorders and symptom management
- Medications to manage depression, anxiety, and other mental health symptoms
- Lifestyle changes, such as social engagement, regular mental health and medical care, regular exercise, and more
Studies show that people with personality disorders can benefit from treatment. While there are no medications to treat these complex disorders, holistic treatment programs can help people manage their symptoms.
Find Mental Health Treatment Now
If you struggle with pathological lying or love someone who does, you are not alone. Contact the intake specialists at First Step Behavioral Health to learn about our mental health treatment programs. Reach out with questions, to schedule appointments, or to verify your insurance coverage.
References:
- American Psychological Association (APA): Pathological Lying: Theory, Research, and Practice
- National Institute of Health (NIH): Pseudologia Fantastica
- NIH: Pathological Lying: Theoretical and Empirical Support for a Diagnostic Entity
