General Question

omfgTALIjustIMDu's avatar

What's the definition of a pathological liar?

Asked by omfgTALIjustIMDu (9288points) October 30th, 2007

What’s the difference between a pathological liar as opposed to, say, frequent liars?

Observing members: 0 Composing members: 0

3 Answers

sjg102379's avatar

Clinically, there’s probably no real difference. “Pathological lying” is not a diagnosis, it’s one sign of a different mental health diagnosis. ‘Pathological” may indicate that the lying is more destructive to the person and his/her relationships, but really, pathological just sounds more medical, and thus worse.

Spargett's avatar

I’ve always understood (simply put) is that the difference is that a pathological liar is not just someone who lies compulsively, but more importantly actually starts to believe the lies they’re telling. More about it is a simple wiki search away:

Mythomania: Wikipedia

mingyeow's avatar

Thanks Spargett, this is a great distinction.

Answer this question

Login

or

Join

to answer.

This question is in the General Section. Responses must be helpful and on-topic.

Your answer will be saved while you login or join.

Have a question? Ask Fluther!

What do you know more about?
or
Knowledge Networking @ Fluther