Beyond the occasional instance of lying, a regular cycle of persistent lying may be pathological and points to mental health issues such as sociopathy. Pathological lying is defined as “a long history of frequent and repeated lying for which no apparent psychological motive or external benefit can be discerned.” There are a variety of personality and behavioral disorders that are related to pathological lying, from narcissism to ADHD. Although no pathological liar exhibits exactly the same characteristics, here are signs to look for:
- Abusive behavior
- Impulsive decision-making
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Pathological Lying