Who are Pathological liars

Who are Pathological liars:
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​Pathological liars are individuals who engage in a pattern of compulsive lying that is often characterized by frequent, elaborate, and sometimes unbelievable falsehoods. These lies are typically told without any apparent motive, personal gain, or external pressure to lie. Pathological lying is considered a psychological disorder and is also sometimes referred to as pseudologia fantastica.

Here are some key characteristics and traits often associated with pathological liars:

Compulsive Lying: Pathological liars lie habitually and often without any clear reason. They may fabricate stories, exaggerate the truth, or invent elaborate tales to impress others or gain attention.

Manipulative Behavior: While their lies may not always be driven by an obvious motive, some pathological liars may use deception to manipulate others or manipulate situations to their advantage.

Lack of Remorse: Pathological liars may not feel guilty or remorseful about their lying behavior, even when confronted with evidence of their falsehoods.

Inconsistent Stories: Their stories and explanations may frequently change or contradict each other. This inconsistency can make it difficult for others to trust them.

Difficulty in Distinguishing Truth from Lies: Some pathological liars may have difficulty distinguishing between their lies and reality. Over time, they may come to believe their own falsehoods.

High-Stakes Lies: Pathological liars may engage in significant or high-stakes lies that can have serious consequences for themselves and others. For example, they might falsely claim to have serious illnesses or make false accusations against others.

It’s important to note that pathological lying is considered a symptom of an underlying psychological issue rather than a standalone diagnosis. It can be associated with various conditions, including personality disorders (such as antisocial personality disorder or borderline personality disorder), impulse control disorders, or other mental health issues.

Treatment for pathological lying typically involves addressing the underlying psychological problems through therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or psychotherapy. In some cases, medication may also be prescribed if there are co-occurring mental health conditions. However, treatment outcomes can vary depending on the individual and the underlying causes of their lying behavior.
​Shervan K Shahhian