From the Research
The treatment for pathological lying typically involves psychotherapy, particularly cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which helps individuals identify and change the thought patterns that lead to dishonest behavior. This approach is supported by the most recent and highest quality study available, which emphasizes the importance of psychotherapy in treating borderline personality disorder, a condition often associated with pathological lying 1.
Key Considerations
- Pathological lying is often a symptom of underlying conditions such as anxiety, depression, or personality disorders, which may require separate treatment with medications like SSRIs (e.g., fluoxetine or sertraline) or mood stabilizers.
- Family therapy can be beneficial as it addresses relationship dynamics that might reinforce lying behaviors.
- Treatment usually requires several months of regular therapy sessions, with weekly meetings being common initially.
- For effective treatment, the individual must acknowledge their problem and be willing to change, which can be challenging since many pathological liars lack insight into their behavior.
Therapeutic Approach
The therapeutic approach focuses on:
- Understanding the motivations behind lying (such as avoiding consequences, seeking attention, or manipulating others)
- Developing healthier coping mechanisms
- Practicing honesty in a supportive environment Recovery is typically measured by a reduction in lying behaviors and improved interpersonal relationships rather than complete elimination of all dishonesty.
Medication Considerations
While there is no specific medication approved for treating pathological lying itself, SSRIs have been shown to be effective in treating underlying conditions like depression and anxiety, which may contribute to lying behaviors 2, 3, 4, 5. However, the choice of medication should be based on the individual's specific needs and the presence of any underlying conditions.