QUESTION:

My Daughter is 9 years old and lives with her mother and stepfather. She has been compulsively lying for some time. She makes up stories after you tell about an experience. The funny thing is, is her story is always similar to mine or someone else's.

When we catch her saying something or doing something, she denies it crying and yelling.

We have been searching for some answers and possibly getting her to some kind of counseling. What is your opinion on this?

DR. HELLER'S ANSWER:

While many kids lie to get out of trouble, this seems excessive. Anxiety disorders, attention deficit disorder and depression - including a psychotic depression - may be present and should be investigated.

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