How to Spot a Pathological Liar: A Guide for BBC Science

Introduction

Pathological lying, also known as pseudologia fantastica, is a behavior of habitual or compulsive lying. It is a long-term pattern of deliberate falsehood that is told to serve one’s own interests, often to gain attention or sympathy from others. People who engage in this type of behavior are typically unable to recognize that they are lying and may not even be aware of the implications of their lies.

Although there is no definitive answer as to why some people lie pathologically, the condition is thought to be linked to psychological disorders such as narcissism, bipolar disorder, and borderline personality disorder. It can have serious consequences, including damage to relationships and reputation, financial losses, and even legal troubles.

Look for Signs of Exaggeration

One of the first signs that someone might be engaging in pathological lying is an excessive tendency to exaggerate. Research has shown that pathological liars tend to embellish stories with details that make them sound more exciting and dramatic than they actually are. For example, a story about a minor incident could be exaggerated to make it seem like a much bigger deal.

People may exaggerate for a number of reasons, such as to make themselves look better, to gain attention, or to make their lives seem more interesting. It is important to remember that exaggeration is not necessarily a sign of pathological lying, but it can be indicative of a larger problem.

Pay Attention to Their Body Language

Body language can be a valuable indicator of whether someone is being truthful or not. Studies have found that when people are lying, they often exhibit signs of anxiety, such as avoiding eye contact, fidgeting, and sweating. They may also display nervous behaviors, like touching their face or hair.

When interacting with someone who may be lying, it is important to pay attention to these signs and see if they match the person’s words. If the body language does not match the story being told, this could be an indication that the person is not telling the truth.

Listen for Inconsistencies

Another telltale sign of a pathological liar is inconsistency in the stories they tell. Pathological liars often change details of their stories each time they tell them, making it difficult to keep track of what is true and what is not. When listening to someone’s story, it is important to pay attention to any changes in the narrative and look for any inconsistencies.

For example, if someone is telling a story about an event that happened last week and then mentions something that contradicts what they said earlier, this could be a sign that they are not being truthful. It is also important to look for any contradictions between what the person is saying and what other people have said about the same situation.

Watch for Defensive Behavior

Defensiveness is another common sign of a pathological liar. People who are lying often become defensive when challenged, as they may feel the need to protect their lies. Examples of defensive behavior include deflecting questions, changing the subject, and becoming angry or hostile.

It is important to remember that not all defensive behavior is indicative of lying, as some people simply become uncomfortable when confronted. However, if the person’s behavior appears overly defensive or aggressive, it could be a sign that they are trying to hide something.

Detect a Lack of Emotion

Another clue that someone may be engaging in pathological lying is a lack of emotion when telling stories. Pathological liars often struggle to show genuine emotion because they are so focused on maintaining their lies. This can manifest itself in a variety of ways, such as speaking in a monotone voice or avoiding eye contact.

It is important to pay attention to the person’s facial expressions and tone of voice when they are telling a story. If they appear to be disconnected from their emotions, this could be a sign that they are not being truthful.

Observe Impulsive Behaviors

Impulsive behaviors are another red flag that someone may be engaging in pathological lying. People who are prone to this type of behavior may act without thinking, often leading them to say or do things that contradict their stories. For example, a pathological liar may impulsively blurt out information that contradicts their previous statements.

It is important to be aware of impulsive behaviors, as they can be a sign that someone is not being truthful. It is also important to remember that not all impulsive behaviors are indicative of lying, as some people simply struggle to control their impulses.

Consider the Context

Finally, it is important to consider the context in which a person is telling a story, as this can help determine if the lie is pathological or not. For example, if someone is telling a story that is clearly exaggerated or impossible, this could be an indication that the lie is pathological. On the other hand, if a person is telling a story that is believable and consistent with the facts, it is less likely to be pathological.

It is also important to consider the person’s motivation for lying. If the person is lying to gain attention or sympathy, this could be a sign of pathological lying. On the other hand, if the person is lying to avoid embarrassment or protect someone else’s feelings, this is less likely to be a sign of a larger problem.

Conclusion

Pathological lying is a serious problem that can have serious consequences. It is important to be aware of the signs and behaviors associated with this condition, as this can help you identify when someone is not being truthful. Pay attention to signs of exaggeration, inconsistency, defensiveness, and a lack of emotion, as well as impulsive behaviors and the context in which the lie is being told. By being aware of these signs, you can help protect yourself from the potential harm caused by pathological lying.