A lie for your own good is quickly told, for example if you are late for an appointment. Fortunately, there are people who turn their entire lives into a lie, which is less common. Pathological lying can arise from a psychological condition such as a personality disorder. Pathological liars are aware of their lies. But there are also people who suffer from delusions or pseudologia fantastica, they think they are telling the truth. A lie is a statement that is not the truth. If this happens unconsciously, it is a mistake. If it is done deliberately, it is a lie.
Pathological lying
Pathological lying means that someone has an uncontrollable urge to lie. These lies lead to problems in the liar’s environment. After all, your partner, parent or friend no longer knows when you tell a lie or tell the truth.
Antisocial personality disorder
Pathological lying can stem from a psychological condition, such as conduct disorder or a personality disorder. People with antisocial personality disorder can appear very affable and charming, but they often lie and are fearless, so they do not see the consequences of their lies. People with this disorder rarely feel guilty.
Pseudologia fantastica
A pathological liar knows very well that he is lying. This is in contrast to people who suffer from delusions or pseudologia fantastica. In both cases, the liars believe they are telling the truth.
They falsify their memories, making them think it is reality. Often these memories deviate wildly from reality and can even go so far as to make the person think he is a genius and has written countless books.
Narcissistic personality disorder
With a narcissistic personality disorder, someone tells lies about plans that are often not feasible. People who suffer from this disorder have an exaggerated sense of self-esteem. They consider themselves very important and also need admiration.