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Almost everyone has lied at least once in their life. However, when lying becomes a consistent, frequent behavior with no specific purpose, it is most likely a sign of pathological lying. Pathological lying can stem from an underlying mental illness and requires prompt medical assistance.
1. What is pathological lying?
Although pathological lying has been discussed for more than a century, there is still no clear definition of this condition. Pathological lying can be understood as the chronic behavior of habitual lying. Unlike the occasional lie to avoid hurting someone's feelings or getting into trouble, a pathological liar often lies for no particular reason. Some pathological lying behaviors can stem from a mental condition, such as antisocial personality disorder, while others appear to have no medical reason for the behavior.
2. How to detect a pathological liar
Identifying a pathological liar is not always easy. Here are some signs that can help you identify a pathological liar:
Pathological lies appear to have no particular benefit. While a person may lie to avoid uncomfortable situations, such as avoiding mistakes or getting into trouble, a pathological liar lies but does not have a specific purpose or benefit. how can. They often appear to be heroes or victims in many of their stories. Pathological liars tend to tell lies in the hope of gaining the admiration, sympathy, or acceptance of others. The stories they tell tend to be complex and very detailed. The stories they tell are often dramatic, detailed, and colorful. They respond elaborately and quickly to questions, but the responses are often vague and provide no answer to the question. Pathological liars also tend to be good orators. They also know how to interact with others when communicating. They are creative and original, are quick to improvise, and often do not show the usual signs of lying, such as long pauses when speaking or avoiding eye contact. They may tell different versions of the same story, this is because they have forgotten the previous details. Sometimes they will believe their own lies. It can be difficult to deal with a pathological liar who may not always be aware that they are lying. Experts believe they may not know the difference between fact and fiction after a long period of frequent lying.
Những lời nói dối bệnh lý dường như không có lợi ích cụ thể
3. Distinguishing a pathological lie from a normal lie
Ordinary lies can be to protect yourself, avoid trouble or deny your own mistakes. But sometimes they are seen as harmless, with no ill intentions or to protect the feelings of others. Some examples of common lies include: saying you have a headache not having to attend a meeting, saying you paid the phone bill when you forgot to pay, or lying about why why you are late for work,...
Meanwhile, pathological lying is lying on a regular and compulsive basis, telling for no apparent reason and not being deterred by guilt or grief fear of being discovered. They also try to lie to appear heroic or victimized. Examples of pathological lies, such as saying they've achieved or experienced something they've never done, claiming to have a life-threatening illness they don't have, or lying to cause harm making an impression on others, such as saying they have a relationship with a famous person.
4. How to deal with a pathological liar?
Most people lie at least once in their life. But when you know someone is suffering from pathological lying, it can be difficult to communicate or treat them normally. Here are some suggestions to help you deal with a pathological liar:
Don't lose your temper: While it may be frustrating, it's important not to get angry when you're facing a bully. pathological lie. Try to be kind but still have a firm attitude towards them. Be ready for denial: A pathological liar may be inclined to react first with a lie. If you deliberately question their lies, they will most likely deny it. They may become angry and express shock at the accusation. Therefore, accept that and understand that they have a medical condition that needs help. Remember it's not about you: When someone keeps telling you lies, you can get annoyed and think that maybe you're the reason they're lying. But keep in mind that the person may be motivated by an underlying personality disorder. Be supportive: When talking to someone with pathological lying, remind them that they don't need to try to impress you. Let them know that you appreciate them for who they are. Don't entice them: When you notice the person is lying, you can question what they are saying, which may cause them to stop lying at that point. You can also let them know that you want to stop the conversation because they were dishonest. Offer medical help: Don't judge them. Express your concern that their behavior may be due to an underlying medical condition and suggest that they seek professional help. Let them know your recommendation comes from an interest in their health. You can prepare information about pathological lying in advance, such as a printout of an article or a booklet they can read when ready.
Việc chẩn đoán một người nói dối bệnh lý khá khó khăn vì có nhiều nguyên nhân có thể gây ra bệnh lý này
5. Diagnosis of pathological lying
Diagnosing a pathological liar is quite difficult because there are many possible causes for this pathology. Talking to the person and taking a medical history is often not enough to make a diagnosis because the person has a tendency to lie. An important aspect of diagnosing a pathological liar is determining whether they realize they are lying or believe the lies they are telling.
Some experts use a lie detector test. The test is not about detecting lies, but to see how well the person can “beat” the test. As this proves that they believe their lies or have become too good at using other means to convince others of their lies. Some psychologists will also interview family members and friends when trying to diagnose a pathological liar.
6. How to cure lying?
Treatment for pathological lying will depend on whether it is a symptom of an underlying mental condition. Treatment will include psychotherapy and may also include medication for other problems, such as medication used to treat anxiety or depression.
Pathological lying can be a symptom of a hidden psychological problem that needs treatment. Therefore, try to empathize with the pathological liar and encourage and support them to seek medical help in a timely manner.
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Reference source: healthline.com
