How to Spot a Pathological Liar | BBC Science Focus Magazine

Introduction

Pathological lying, also known as pseudologia fantastica, is a behavior characterized by the chronic telling of lies, regardless of whether they are necessary or not. It’s estimated that nearly one in five people are pathological liars, making it a much more common problem than most people realize. The consequences of this disorder can be serious, ranging from damaged relationships to legal trouble.

Identifying a pathological liar can be difficult, but there are certain signs that may help you determine if someone is being deceptive. In this article, we’ll explore how to spot a pathological liar and what you can do if you suspect someone is lying to you.

Identify Inconsistent Stories

One of the telltale signs of a pathological liar is inconsistent stories. “When someone is lying, their story often changes from one conversation to the next as they attempt to cover up their lie,” says Dr. Robert Feldman, professor of psychology at the University of Massachusetts Amherst.

To spot a liar, look for inconsistencies in their stories. If two versions of the same story don’t match up, it could be a sign that the person is lying. You should also ask follow-up questions to see if the person’s answers remain consistent. If they start to waver, that could be a sign that something isn’t quite right.

Look for Signs of Manipulation

Pathological liars often try to manipulate others to get what they want. Look for signs that the person is trying to control the conversation or the people around them. For example, they may try to use guilt or flattery to get their way.

Pay attention to subtle influence tactics such as changing the topic when they’re caught in a lie, deflecting responsibility, or shifting blame to someone else. These are all signs that the person is attempting to manipulate the situation to their advantage.

Watch for Exaggerations

Another common characteristic of a pathological liar is exaggeration. The person may make grandiose claims that seem too good to be true. They may also make unusual claims that no one else could possibly verify.

Be wary of extravagant stories or claims that go beyond what would normally be expected. If the person seems to be embellishing their stories or making outlandish claims, it could be a sign that they’re lying.

Notice Unusual Body Language

The body language of a pathological liar can be a dead giveaway. Many liars will avoid eye contact, which can indicate that they’re hiding something. They may also exhibit nervous mannerisms such as fidgeting, twitching, or avoiding physical contact.

If you notice any of these behaviors, it could be a sign that the person is lying. However, it’s important to note that some people naturally have these mannerisms, so be sure to consider other factors before jumping to conclusions.

Listen for Unusual Speech Patterns

Liars often give themselves away through their choice of words. According to Dr. Feldman, liars often use phrases like “to tell the truth” or “honestly” when they’re not actually telling the truth. They may also employ defense mechanisms such as blaming others or making excuses.

If you hear someone using these types of phrases or employing defensive strategies, it could be an indication that they’re lying. Pay attention to the words they use and the way they phrase their sentences to get a better understanding of their intentions.

Conclusion

Spotting a pathological liar can be difficult, but there are certain signs that can help you identify them. Look for inconsistencies in their stories, signs of manipulation, exaggerated claims, unusual body language, and speech patterns that indicate deception. If you suspect someone is lying to you, take the time to investigate further to make sure your suspicions are accurate.

By following the tips outlined in this article, you’ll be better equipped to identify a pathological liar and take steps to protect yourself from their deceitful behavior.