Pathological Lying (No-BPD)

QUESTION:

I am interested in finding any information on pathological liars. Specifically symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis. How do we know if we have one in the family?

DR. HELLER'S ANSWER:

Pathological lying is considered a character problem at this time. Clearly anxiety and impulsivity problems can make it worse. Anxious people terrified of consequences may lie to prevent those consequences until it become a habit. Impulsive people may do the same thing to avoid the consequences of their actions.

In general in my experience, people who lie and want to stop it have biological problems partially at fault, and can be treated medically. Those who deny it even when faced with the facts in a loving manner are extremely difficult to help.

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