Pathological liar facts for kids
A pathological liar is someone who lies as a habit. It is a type of mental illness where a person tells lies often, sometimes without a clear reason. This problem was first written about in 1891 by a doctor named Anton Delbrueck.
The word pathological comes from "pathology." Pathology is the study of what causes diseases and how they affect the body or mind. So, a pathological liar is someone whose lying is like a symptom of a condition.
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What is a Pathological Liar?
A pathological liar is a person who tells lies very often. It is not just telling a fib now and then. For these people, lying becomes a strong habit. They might lie about big things or small things. Sometimes, they even seem to believe their own lies.
More Than Just a Habit
This kind of lying is different from regular lying. Most people lie sometimes to avoid trouble or to make someone feel better. But for a pathological liar, it is a deeper issue. It is often linked to how their mind works. It is not always about tricking others. Sometimes, it is about how they see themselves or the world.
Why Do People Lie This Way?
Experts are still learning why some people become pathological liars. It is not fully understood. Some ideas suggest it might be linked to early life experiences. Others think it could be about how a person handles stress or difficult feelings. They might lie to feel more important or to escape reality. It is not usually done to hurt others on purpose.
When Did We Learn About It?
The idea of pathological lying is not new. As mentioned, Anton Delbrueck first wrote about it in 1891. He was a doctor who studied how people's minds work. His work helped others understand that this type of lying is a real issue. It is not just a bad habit.
Getting Help
If someone lies pathologically, they can get help. This usually involves talking to a mental health professional. These experts can help the person understand why they lie. They can also teach new ways to deal with feelings or situations. It is important to remember that it is a complex issue. Getting help can make a big difference.
See also
In Spanish: Mitomanía para niños
