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Pathological lying is a multifaceted phenomenon that requires further systematic research to understand its underlying causes and develop effective treatment options. Recognizing and distinguishing pathological lying from normal lying is crucial for accurate diagnosis and management. Future research should focus on the neurobiological and psychological characteristics of pathological liars to provide a clearer understanding of this intriguing behavior.
Pathological lying, also known as pseudologia fantastica, is a complex and controversial topic within psychiatry. Unlike everyday lies, pathological lying is characterized by frequent and compulsive falsehoods without clear external motivations. This article aims to provide an overview of pathological lying, its characteristics, potential causes, and implications.
Defining Pathological Lying
Pathological lying is defined as a repetitive pattern of lying for which an external reason, such as financial gain, is often absent. The lies are typically extensive, complicated, and may persist over a long period, sometimes even a lifetime3. This behavior is distinct from other forms of lying, such as malingering or deceitfulness associated with antisocial personality disorders3.
Characteristics of Pathological Liars
Pathological liars often tell numerous lies each day for longer than six months, and these lies can grow from an initial falsehood, becoming increasingly elaborate5. Unlike common lies, pathological lies are told compulsively and for no apparent reason, leading to significant distress and impaired functioning in the liar’s life5.
Psychological and Biological Factors
The etiology of pathological lying is not well understood, and it lacks strong professional consensus. Some possible psychological mechanisms include a dysfunctional prefrontal cortex, which is involved in executive functions and Theory of Mind9. Studies have shown that individuals who pathologically lie exhibit structural abnormalities in the prefrontal cortex, including increased white matter volume and reduced grey/white matter ratios8. These findings suggest that the prefrontal cortex plays a crucial role in the neural circuitry underlying deceitful behavior8.
Forensic and Clinical Implications
Pathological lying has significant implications in forensic psychiatry due to the potential legal consequences of untruths. Forensic psychiatrists must consider the extent to which a person can control their lying behavior and whether pathological liars have responsibility for their actions2. Additionally, pathological lying can be found among successful individuals without a history of criminal behavior, complicating the clinical picture3.
Relationship with Mental Disorders
Pathological lying is often associated with various personality disorders, including antisocial, histrionic, narcissistic, borderline, and compulsive personalities10. The relationship between pathological lying and mental disorders highlights the need for a multidimensional approach to assessment, considering the patient’s control over lying, the function of lying, and its impact on everyday functioning4.