Constantly Lying Without Reason
A pathological liar is someone who lies excessively and for no reason.
Such lying can cause distress and dysfunction in an individuals life and relationships.
Pathological lying can seem compulsive and may be used interchangeably with compulsive lying.
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However, researchers have suggested that pathological lying should be established as its own diagnosis.
Why Are People Pathological Liars?
For example, pathological lying is one of the criteria used to assess lying behaviors associated withpsychopathy.
One of the symptoms of antisocial personality disorder is frequent lying.
Is Pathological Lying Related to Narcissism?
Effect of Pathological Lying on Others
Pathological lying can negatively impact others and can be dangerous.
You may feel like you’re gonna wanna have your guard up.
However, there are ways to protect yourself from someone elses pathological lying.
In addition, inconsistent information and unbelievable statements or claims can be clues that someone is lying.
Also, pathological lying can be compulsive and cause a lot of distress, so exercising compassion is key.
You might ask if theyve considered talking to a healthcare provider or therapist to seek help.
But it can still be hurtful.
Can Pathological Liars Stop Lying?
As pathological lying is not officially recognized, research on effective treatments is limited.
Not giving attention to those tendencies and instead choosing and reinforcing honesty may be a helpful practice.
American Psychological Association.Speaking of psychology: Can a pathological liar be cured?
With Drew Curtis, PhD, and Christian L. Hart, PhD.
Curtis DA, Hart CL.Pathological lying: theoretical and empirical support for a diagnostic entity.Psychiatr Res Clin Pract.
2020;2(2):62-69. doi:10.1176/appi.prcp.20190046
MedlinePlus.Antisocial personality disorder.
Curtis DA, Hart CL.Pathological lying: psychotherapists experiences and ability to diagnose.The American Journal of Psychotherapy.
