Pathological lying is a behavior associated with a condition called "pseudologia fantastica" or "mythomania." People who engage in pathological lying are compulsive liars and may lie about a wide range of things, even when there is no apparent reason to do so. There are several reasons why individuals with this condition may engage in habitual lying:
Attention-seeking: Pathological liars may crave attention and sympathy from others. By telling elaborate and often fictional stories, they can gain the attention and admiration they desire.
Low self-esteem: A person with low self-esteem may lie to make themselves appear more successful, talented, or interesting to others, thereby boosting their self-worth.
Avoidance of consequences: Some pathological liars may use lies as a way to avoid facing negative consequences for their actions or to escape from difficult situations.
Coping mechanism: Lying can be a coping mechanism to deal with stress, anxiety, or trauma. Creating fictional narratives may serve as a temporary escape from reality.
Impulse control issues: Pathological lying can be associated with impulse control problems, where individuals struggle to control the urge to lie, even when they know it is wrong.
Manipulation and control: In some cases, pathological liars may use their lies to manipulate and control others, gaining power and influence over them.
Need for validation: These individuals may have an intense need for approval and validation from others. Lying may be a way to elicit positive responses from those around them.
Underlying psychological conditions: Pathological lying can sometimes be a symptom of other mental health disorders, such as borderline personality disorder or narcissistic personality disorder.
It's important to note that pathological lying is considered a psychological condition and not simply a personality trait. The behavior is often difficult for the individual to control, and they may genuinely believe their lies, making it challenging to distinguish truth from fiction.
If you know someone who exhibits patterns of pathological lying, it may be helpful for them to seek professional help from a mental health specialist, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist, to explore the underlying reasons behind their behavior and work on healthier coping strategies.