TIFS on Mental Health: "Don't tell me no lies...and keep your hands to yourself!"

Pathological lying is relatively uncommon but still significant. Estimates suggest that it affects about 8% to 13% of the population12. However, due to limited research and the fact that it’s not officially recognized as a distinct mental health diagnosis, these numbers can vary.

Pathological lying can cause considerable distress and impair functioning, making it important to address through appropriate psychological or psychiatric interventions.

Pathological lying is relatively uncommon but still significant. Estimates suggest that it affects about 8% to 13% of the population. However, due to limited research and the fact that it’s not officially recognized as a distinct mental health diagnosis, these numbers can vary.

Pathological lying can cause considerable distress and impair functioning, making it important to address through appropriate psychological or psychiatric interventions.

Additionally, individuals with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) might lie to hide their compulsions or to prevent others from worrying about their behaviors.

A notable case discussed in the Journal of Neuropsychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences involved a pathological liar whose brain scan revealed right hemithalamic dysfunction. This suggests that neurological factors can also play a role in habitual lying.

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The researchers found that the right hemithalamus, a part of the brain involved in regulating emotions and behavior, showed abnormal activity. This dysfunction was thought to contribute to the individual’s compulsive lying behavior.

This study highlights the complexity of pathological lying and underscores the importance of considering both neurological and psychological aspects when diagnosing and treating this behavior.