What is Compulsive Lying? How Is It Different from Pathological Lying?

Compulsive and pathological lying are often misunderstood and mislabelled. Many people use these terms interchangeably, yet they refer to distinct behavioural patterns. 

While both involve chronic dishonesty, the underlying motives, psychological traits, and emotional awareness behind them vary. 

This article unpacks the psychology behind compulsive lying, the clinical features of pathological lying, and how to tell the difference.  

What is Compulsive Lying? 

Compulsive lying is not simply the act of telling occasional fibs. It is a persistent behaviour pattern that often forms unconsciously.  

Individuals may not even realise when or why they are lying; it becomes a habit, often used to avoid stress, shame, or confrontation. 

Definition and Overview 

Compulsive lying refers to a habitual tendency to lie without a clear or logical motivation. A person with a compulsive lying disorder may fabricate stories even when the truth would serve them just as well. 

• Often begins in early life 

• Not always intentional or malicious 

• May stem from insecurity, fear, or anxiety 

This kind of constant lying disorder can impact relationships and self-image, even when the lies seem harmless. 

Psychological Traits of a Compulsive Liar 

People who lie compulsively often do so without planning or clear intent. Their behaviour is shaped more by habit than by manipulation. 

• Lies become reflexive rather than strategic 

• Often feels guilt or shame after lying 

• Lying provides short-term relief from distress or discomfort 

• May struggle with low self-worth or fear of judgment 

A compulsive liar is not necessarily trying to manipulate. Rather, they lie because it has become a coping mechanism. 

Is Compulsive Lying a Disease or Disorder? 

While compulsive lying is not listed as a standalone disorder in the DSM-5, it often appears as a symptom of broader behavioural or mental health issues. 

Psychologists consider it a behavioural trait rather than a formally diagnosable lying mental disorder. However, its effects can be severe and may require professional intervention, especially when linked to other conditions like trauma, anxiety, or ADHD. 

What is Pathological Lying? 

Unlike compulsive lying, pathological lying is more deliberate and often manipulative in nature. These lies are typically crafted for personal gain, control, or admiration. 

Definition and Key Features 

Pathological lying involves creating falsehoods with intent, not necessarily to avoid stress, but to craft a particular image or manipulate others. It’s often deliberate, sustained, and disconnected from genuine emotional awareness. 

• Lies are often grandiose, detailed, and sustained 

• Fabrications may serve self-interest 

• Rarely shows guilt or emotional discomfort 

This kind of chronic liar may lie even when it causes harm, damages trust, or leads to serious consequences. 

Common Traits of Pathological Liars 

Certain behaviours are commonly seen in people who lie pathologically 

• Lies are unprovoked, elaborate, and often contradictory 

• May lie even when evidence contradicts them 

• Tendency toward narcissistic or antisocial personality traits 

• Manipulation is often a goal, not a by-product 

Pathological lying may signal deeper personality issues, but the behaviour itself is still distressing, both for the individual and their loved ones. 

Pathological Liar vs Compulsive Liar: Key Differences 

Though both involve repeated dishonesty, the differences lie in intent, awareness, and emotional response, as well as how the lies affect relationships, trust, and self-perception. 

Motivation Behind the Lies 

Understanding why someone lies is key to recognising whether it’s compulsive or pathological in nature. 

• Compulsive liar: Lies to relieve stress, out of habit 

• Pathological liar: Lies for control, attention, or manipulation 

Compulsive lying is automatic. Pathological lying is calculated. 

Emotional Awareness and Guilt 

Their emotional response to lying can also reveal important differences between the two types. 

• Compulsive liars may feel guilt and regret 

• Pathological liars often feel little to no remorse 

• A compulsive liar may even confess spontaneously, while a pathological liar may double down 

Consistency and Awareness 

How consistently and consciously a person lies also marks a clear distinction. 

• Compulsive liar: May contradict themselves without realising 

• Pathological liar: Lies are often rehearsed and defended 

• Pathological vs compulsive liar is largely distinguished by control and self-awareness 

What Causes Compulsive and Pathological Lying? 

While there is no single cause for compulsive or pathological lying, some factors that contribute to this condition are early life experiences, emotional distress, personality traits, and mental health conditions. Understanding these root factors is key to providing the right kind of support and treatment. 

Underlying Psychological Factors 

• Early experiences such as childhood neglect, trauma, or abuse can shape dishonest behaviours 

• Insecure attachment patterns may lead to fear of vulnerability or rejection 

• Low self-esteem or a shame-based identity can fuel the need to lie for self-protection 

• Lying may serve as an emotional escape or a defence against distress 

• Over time, this coping habit can develop into a lying disorder, used to avoid pain or manage perceived threats 

Associated Mental Health Conditions 

Compulsive or pathological lying can sometimes occur alongside other mental health conditions. In such cases, the lying may not always be deliberate. 

• Bipolar and compulsive lying: During manic episodes, increased impulsivity and racing thoughts may result in exaggerated or dishonest claims without full awareness of consequences. 

• Schizophrenia and compulsive lying: False beliefs or delusions can blur the line between reality and fabrication, leading to statements that are untrue but not deliberately deceptive. 

• Compulsive lying and Dementia: Memory lapses may result in inconsistent stories that seem like lies but are often unintentional. 

Is it linked to Personality Disorders? 

Yes, chronic lying disorder is often seen in individuals with certain personality disorders. In these cases, lying is not random; it reflects deeper emotional or relational struggles. 

• Antisocial Personality Disorder: Lying is used to deceive, manipulate, or exploit others 

• Narcissistic Personality Disorder: Lies often serve to enhance self-image or gain admiration 

• Borderline Personality Disorder: Dishonesty may arise from intense fear of rejection or abandonment 

These patterns are treatable and can improve with the right therapeutic support.

How to Know if You or Someone is a Chronic Liar 

Occasional dishonesty is human. But when lying becomes frequent, unnecessary, and disruptive, it may point to a deeper behavioural pattern. Recognising these signs early can help guide appropriate support or intervention. 

Signs to Watch For 

Recognising chronic lying involves observing consistent patterns over time, not just isolated incidents. 

• Frequent contradictions in stories: The person’s accounts often change, even when recalling recent events 

• Over-explaining or unnecessary exaggeration: Simple details are blown out of proportion or overly justified 

• Details change with mild questioning: Gentle probing causes the story to shift or fall apart 

• Lies persist even when there's no clear benefit: Dishonesty appears habitual, not strategic 

• Others often express confusion or mistrust: Friends or family regularly question what’s real 

These may be red flags of a chronic liar, not just careless mistakes. 

Impact on Relationships and Self-Perception 

Compulsive lying doesn’t just affect others; it can take a deep emotional toll on the individual as well. 

• Erodes trust within families and friendships: Loved ones begin to question what’s real 

• Leads to shame, defensiveness, or isolation: Guilt builds, and social withdrawal may follow 

• Constant need to maintain the lie can cause anxiety: The pressure to keep stories straight is exhausting 

• May impact self-worth and create emotional fatigue: Repeated dishonesty can erode one’s sense of identity 

Even when unintentional, it leaves many feelings trapped. 

Compulsive Lying Disorder Treatment 

With the right support, change is not only possible; it can last. Treatment focuses on understanding the root causes, building healthier coping strategies, and restoring trust. Though not a formal diagnosis, compulsive lying can be effectively addressed through therapeutic care. 

Can Compulsive Lying Be Treated? 

Yes. Although compulsive lying isn’t classified as a formal mental health diagnosis, it is a treatable behaviour. Therapy, self-awareness, and structured accountability can make a significant difference. For those wondering, “is there a cure for compulsive lying?”, the answer is nuanced.  

There’s no instant fix or medication that erases the habit overnight. However, with professional support, many individuals have successfully broken the cycle and built more honest, stable lives. Long-term change begins with willingness and the right guidance. 

Therapy Approaches 

Effective treatment for compulsive lying disorder often involves a blend of therapeutic methods tailored to individual needs. 

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): 

• Identifies thought patterns that trigger lying 

• Helps individuals recognise distortions and build healthier coping mechanisms 

Psychodynamic Therapy: 

• Explores unresolved emotional wounds or early life trauma 

• Builds deeper insight into unconscious motives behind lying 

Medication: 

• Prescribed only if co-existing conditions like bipolar disorder or ADHD are present 

• Can help regulate mood swings, reduce impulsivity, or manage anxiety 

This multi-layered approach ensures care addresses both behaviour and its emotional roots. 

Lifestyle and Accountability Changes 

Beyond therapy, certain daily practices can support long-term recovery from compulsive lying. 

• Daily journaling to track truth vs falsehoods 

• Honest self-reflection and structured check-ins 

• Support groups or family therapy to rebuild trust 

Sustainable recovery often involves community and habit retraining, not just insight. 

How to Help Someone Who Lies Compulsively 

Helping doesn’t mean excusing. But it does mean understanding the emotional landscape behind the behaviour, including the fears, patterns, and needs that often go unspoken. 

Support without Enabling 

Approaching a compulsive liar with empathy and structure can make a real difference. 

• Stay calm and grounded when addressing dishonest behaviour 

• Don’t shame; focus on impact, not punishment 

• Encourage honesty without making it a test 

• Set boundaries with compassion 

You can support healing without becoming a caretaker for lies. 

When to Seek Professional Help 

Certain patterns suggest it’s time to involve a mental health professional. 

• When lying disrupts daily life, work, or family trust 

• If the person denies or justifies the behaviour 

• When lying escalates even after confrontations 

• If emotional instability or confusion (e.g. identity shifts, paranoia) is present 

Professional guidance can offer clarity, accountability, and tools for long-term change. 

Can They Ever Fully Stop? 

Yes, with willingness and therapeutic support, people can unlearn even deeply ingrained habits. 

If you're wondering, “how do I stop compulsive lying?”, start by recognising the pattern, seeking help, and building new ways of relating to yourself and others. 

Break the Cycle of Lying: With Support That Goes Deeper with Cadabam's Hospitals

Living with a pattern of dishonesty, whether compulsive or pathological, is exhausting. But it doesn’t have to be permanent. With the right help, change is not only possible, it’s sustainable. Support, structure, and self-awareness can rebuild trust and restore peace. 

Chronic Lying Is a Symptom, Not Your Identity 

Healing begins with understanding, not judgment. Here’s what’s important to remember: 

• Compulsive lying doesn’t make you a bad person 

• It often masks deeper pain or emotional needs 

• Naming it is the first act of honesty and healing 

• Recovery is possible, and no one should walk that path alone 

Whether you're a loved one or struggling yourself, you're not beyond help, and you're certainly not alone. 

Cadabam's Clinical Approach Grounded in Trust and Understanding 

At Cadabam’s Hospitals, we’ve spent over 30 years supporting individuals with lying disorders, personality issues, and co-occurring conditions. 

• Evidence-based therapies, including CBT and psychodynamic approaches 

• Support for bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, trauma, and compulsive behaviours 

• Family involvement and aftercare planning 

• Personalised, stigma-free care 

If you are searching for a solution to your problem, Cadabam’s Hospitals can help you with its team of specialised experts. We have been helping thousands of people live healthier and happier lives for 30+ years. We leverage evidence-based approaches and holistic treatment methods to help individuals effectively manage their Lying Disorder. Get in touch with us today. You can call us at +91 97414 76476. You can even email us at info@cadabamshospitals.com.

FAQs 

How is compulsive lying different from pathological lying? 

Compulsive lying is habitual and often without purpose. Pathological lying is more calculated, manipulative, and driven by personal gain, often without guilt or regard for consequences.

Can compulsive lying be treated? 

Yes. While not a formal diagnosis, compulsive lying can be treated with therapies like CBT or psychodynamic therapy, especially when linked to underlying emotional or mental health issues. 

Is compulsive lying a mental illness? 

Compulsive lying isn’t classified as a standalone mental illness but may occur alongside conditions like ADHD, anxiety, or personality disorders. It is a treatable behavioural issue. 

How do I stop compulsive lying? 

Awareness is the first step. Therapy, journaling, and accountability can help break the cycle. Professional support is key to building honesty, trust, and healthier communication habits.