TIFS on Your Mental Health: Pathological liars are triggered by and suffer from deep and complex mental issues

Pathological lying--sometimes referred to as pseudologia fantastica or mythomania—is a complex and often misunderstood behavior.

Unlike the occasional white lie or even the habitual fibbing seen in compulsive liars, pathological lying is marked by frequent, elaborate, and often manipulative falsehoods. These lies are told with striking confidence and are rarely motivated by clear external rewards. Instead, they serve deeper psychological needs, often rooted in trauma, personality disorders, or neurological differences.

A pathological liar doesn’t just lie to get out of trouble or gain a quick advantage. Their fabrications can be grandiose, ranging from invented personal tragedies to claims of fame or heroism. These stories are often told with such conviction that they can be difficult to

immediately disprove. Over time, the liar may even begin to believe their own narratives, blurring the line between reality and fiction. What makes this behavior especially troubling is the lack of remorse or concern for the consequences. When confronted, pathological liars may become defensive, deny wrongdoing, or double down on their falsehoods.

Psychologically, pathological lying is not recognized as a standalone diagnosis in the DSM-5, but it frequently coexists with other mental health conditions. Antisocial personality disorder, for instance, is often associated with lying for manipulation or personal gain.

Narcissistic personality disorder may drive individuals to lie in order to maintain a grandiose self-image, while those with borderline personality disorder might lie to avoid abandonment or rejection. In more extreme cases, pathological lying can be a feature of factitious disorder (formerly known as Munchausen syndrome), where individuals fabricate illness or trauma to gain attention or sympathy.

Neurologically, research has revealed some intriguing findings. Studies suggest that pathological liars may have increased white matter in the prefrontal cortex, which could enhance their ability to fabricate and maintain lies.

At the same time, they may have reduced gray matter in areas responsible for impulse control and moral reasoning. These structural differences might make lying feel easier and less emotionally taxing, contributing to the persistence of the behavior.

The roots of pathological lying often trace back to early life experiences. Childhood trauma, neglect, or emotionally unsafe environments can lead a child to develop lying as a survival mechanism. Over time, this behavior becomes ingrained, reinforced by the attention or avoidance of conflict it brings.

Low self-esteem is another common thread; for some, lying becomes a way to inflate their self-worth or mask deep-seated feelings of inadequacy. Others may lie to gain admiration, sympathy, or simply to feel in control. In certain cases, the act of lying itself provides a psychological thrill, a sense of power or excitement that becomes addictive.

Treating pathological lying is challenging, particularly because many individuals lack insight into their behavior or resist acknowledging it as a problem. However, progress is possible with the right therapeutic approach. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is often effective in helping individuals identify and challenge the distorted beliefs that lead to lying. Habit Reversal Training can increase awareness of lying triggers and teach alternative responses, while psychodynamic therapy delves into unconscious motives and past trauma.

Motivational interviewing, a nonjudgmental and collaborative approach, can help build internal motivation for change. In cases where relationships have been damaged, family or group therapy may be essential for rebuilding trust and improving communication.

Supportive strategies outside of therapy also play a crucial role. Reinforcing honesty through positive feedback, rather than punishing dishonesty, can encourage more truthful behavior. It’s important for loved ones to avoid enabling the behavior, even when lies seem harmless or well-intentioned. Setting clear emotional boundaries helps protect those affected by the lies, while encouraging professional help frames therapy as a path to self-understanding rather than punishment.

Despite the challenges, it’s important to remember that pathological lying is not simply a moral failing—it’s often a symptom of deeper psychological distress. Many pathological liars are not malicious; they are struggling with unresolved trauma, unmet emotional needs, or neurological differences that shape their behavior. With compassionate support, evidence-based treatment, and a commitment to truth, even the most deeply rooted patterns of deception can begin to unravel.

Understanding the mind behind the mask is the first step toward healing, not just for the liar, but for everyone affected by the web of falsehoods they weave.