How to Spot a Pathological Liar

Pathological lying, also known as pseudologia fantastica, is a pattern of lying that is both habitual and done despite negative consequences. While pathological lying is not a recognized disorder in the DSM, the diagnostic manual used by the American Psychiatric Association, it is considered by some psychiatrists to be a pattern of behavior that is indicative of a more serious mental illness. A pathological liar cannot be identified by his appearance per se, but his behavior can be analyzed for symptoms of the condition.

Instructions

• 1

  Analyze a day-to-day conversation you have with the individual you suspect of being a pathological liar. Does the conversation contain grandiose claims about the person's life that seem unbelievable? Pathological liars tend to come up with their lies compulsively and are often unable to back up their lies when questioned further for details. Try questioning her about the details of her life, and notice whether she seems to become uncomfortable with your inquiries. If so, you can suspect that she may be lying.

• 2

  Think back on past interactions you have had with the individual you suspect of being a pathological liar. If you can recall instances where the individual has been caught lying, but was unwilling to admit any wrongdoing, he is displaying symptoms of pathological lying.

• 3

  Determine whether the person has been diagnosed with a mental health disorder that has pathological lying as one of its common symptoms. These include: histrionic, narcissistic, antisocial or borderline personality disorder, factitious disorder, confabulation, malingering, delusions, or Ganser's syndrome. If she has been diagnosed with any of these disorders, her pattern of lying may be symptomatic of a more serious mental illness.