What is a pathological liar?

A PATHOLOGICAL liar can make a person feel confused by their temper when they speak, leading them to wonder if what they are saying is true.

On average, over the course of their lives, pathological liars tell about ten lies a day, ruining their bonds with those around them.

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What is a pathological liar?

A study of pathological liars focused on 623 people and found that about 13 percent of people are pathological liars.

The term was coined by psychiatrist Anton Delbrück in 1891 to describe someone who told so many lies that it could be considered pathological.

A person considered a pathological liar generally goes beyond normal exaggeration and uses lies to manipulate or deceive others.

The difference between lying and being defined as a pathological liar is the person’s need to lie without motive.

Generally, a lie is told for a reason that benefits the individual, but a pathological liar will tell it for no reason.

The study, published in the journal Psychiatric Research and Clinical Practice, reported that subjects were asked a series of questions while undergoing a lie detector test.

They found that of the 13 percent, the majority told an average of 10 lies each day, and some admitted to lying for no reason, saying they sometimes outgrew an initial lie.

The study is one of only a few conducted in this area, and the cause of the pathological lying is still unknown.

Researchers say they need to conduct additional tests and studies to determine the underlying reasons behind a person’s development into a pathological liar.

What are the characteristics of a pathological liar?

Pathological liars may not seem any different from those who lie regularly, but there are some characteristics that set them apart.

Features include:

• Your lie seems to have no clear benefit
• Their lies are usually dramatic, overly embellished, complicated, and detailed
• Sometimes they believe the lies they tell, sometimes they fall into the category of deception
• They usually portray themselves as heroes or victims in the lies they tell

How do you deal with a pathological liar?

Pathological liars can be more frustrating for friends and family members because they have nothing to gain by telling their lies.

However, there are ways to respond to a pathological liar, including:

• Controlling Her Temper – It’s important to respond to her in a firm, yet kind and supportive manner.
• Expect them to deny the lie – When confronted, the person will likely deny the accusation and may show shock or anger.
• Remember, the lie isn’t about you — It’s easy to take a pathological liar personally, but it’s important to remember that they’re driven by fear, low self-esteem, or an underlying personality disorder, according to Healthline can be.
• Be Supportive – Tell them you like them the way they are and tell them not to lie to you.

• Don’t Participate in the Lie – Instead, tell them you don’t want to continue the conversation while they’re being dishonest.
• Suggest they seek medical help – This should be done with support and kindness, telling them you genuinely care about their well-being.