Understanding Lying August 2022 | Page 7

Different Types of Lies

Lying by omission. While it might not technically seem like lying, leaving out key facts or details in a story is not telling the complete truth. By leaving out details purposefully, you mislead others and give them a false sense of reality. 

Telling "white lies." No matter how small or "harmless" they seem, white lies are still lies. They may make a particular social interaction feel easier in the moment, but it’s always better to be truthful yet tactful.

Exaggerating the facts. Similar to “white lies," exaggerating the facts and not representing something honestly leads to trouble. People who tend to exaggerate usually do this because they feel an unhealthy need for approval from others. When reality inevitably fails to live up to the story, the liar ends up look bad, dishonest, unreliable, and potentially hurtful.

Outright lying. Some people completely falsify information about themselves, others, or situations. In this type of situation, the person lying might do it for sport, to see if they can control someone, or because of deep shame about the truth. From saying you got an "A" when you really got a "D" to claiming that you've never, ever exchanged texts with that one girl, outright lies are a cruel manipulation of another person's reality.

Spreading rumors. Gossip and rumors are part of everyday life in our society--even the media treats it as news! When you knowingly spread rumors or stories that aren’t confirmed to be true, you are participating in dishonesty.