Are you dealing with a pathological liar? Let's find out!

Deception plays a significant role in our daily lives, despite its moral complexities. While we often view lying negatively, it's practically impossible to completely eliminate it from our routines. We've all been untruthful at some point, whether we acknowledge it or not. White lies, seen as the "good guys" in the world of deception, typically carry minimal harm or consequences. On the other hand, pathological lying involves a compulsive inclination to create false realities without any apparent need. Distinguishing between the two requires understanding the intricacies of their motives and effects. Stick around to uncover the nuances!

 White liars 

White liars include all of us who have occasionally fibbed about minor matters in life to steer clear of unpleasant conversations or avoid offending anyone. For instance, when someone asks, 'How are you?' We often respond with 'I am fine,' even if the reality may be different. We might not be feeling well that day, facing headaches, or dealing with other factors that have dampened our mood, yet we reply with 'I am good.' This is an example of a white lie that causes no harm to others.

 Pathological liars

Due to the compulsive nature of pathological lying, they may fabricate information unconsciously and might not realise they're lying in the moment. Additionally, they may not care about the lying as long as it serves their purpose. In contrast to white lies, which lack a personal agenda, pathological liars deceive to present a false image of themselves. This behaviour can lead to severe stress and trust issues among their close relationships, eventually causing people to stop believing them.

The main characteristics of white lies 

White lies are commonly used to preserve harmony in both personal and professional relationships, as they are generally considered harmless and socially acceptable. These seemingly sweet lies aim to please others, such as offering praise to a colleague on their weight loss journey, even if the reality differs. These small falsehoods are not meant to deceive or cause harm but rather to be a source of happiness and positivity. White lies typically carry minimal consequences, with almost zero to little trouble caused. Another key characteristic is their occasional nature and limited frequency. Most white lies are well-intentioned, fostering positive encouragement towards others.

The main characteristics of pathological lies

Pathological lying involves a compulsive tendency to fabricate information without a valid reason, disrupting both personal and professional relationships. These lies can lead to significant harm, creating social, financial, and legal problems for the pathological liars. Over time, pathological liars may start believing their own falsehoods, considering them realities. Skilled storytellers with strong imaginative abilities, they tend to compound lies when faced with questioning, perpetuating a harmful cycle that damages both their 'storyline' and their overall image!

 White lies vs. pathological lies: Spotting the difference

White lies are driven by empathy and a desire to avoid discomfort. They are generally infrequent and cause minimal harm, often going unnoticed. In contrast, pathological lies complicate situations, disrupting not only the life of the liar but also profoundly affecting those associated with them—friends, family, or spouses. Detecting pathological lies involves assessing their frequency, intention, and types. Pathological liars often craft a specific image, portraying themselves either as victims or heroes through consistent deception. Over time and with cross-checking, the repetitive patterns of pathological lying become evident, making detection more feasible. 

While white lies may be a common aspect of our daily interactions and relatively manageable, dealing with pathological liars poses a considerable challenge. Avoiding lying is advisable for everyone, as deceptive practices contribute little to fostering healthier relationships or achieving significant accomplishments. In the long run, the truth has a way of surfacing, exposing those who engage in deceptive behaviour.