What is Mythomania (Pathological Lying Disorder)?

Mythomania, also known as pathological lying disorder, is defined as a condition where an individual has an uncontrollable tendency to lie continuously, even without any tangible gain. People in this state, often referred to as "mythomaniacs" or "pathological liars," lie for reasons such as attracting attention or feeling better about themselves..

Individuals with mythomania frequently tell lies that are exaggerated, attention-grabbing, or logically flawed. As a result, they may experience confusion between reality and fiction, even believing their own lies.

Mythomania, which can develop due to factors such as personality disorders, the need for attention, trauma, or low self-esteem, is a condition that requires treatment with the help of a professional.

What Causes Mythomania (Pathological Lying Disorder)?

It is not possible to pinpoint a definitive cause of mythomania (pathological lying disorder). However, many factors, including an individual’s general psychological state, past traumas, or environmental influences like social or familial pressures, are thought to contribute to the development of this condition.

Moreover, mythomania is not a standalone illness but may also be seen as a symptom of other disorders. This issue can also arise in individuals suffering from anxiety, impulse control disorders, anxiety disorders, or depression.

Pathological liars tend to normalize their behavior as part of their identity. They use it to gain acceptance or reach a certain status within society. Since they perceive lying as normal, they are prone to believing their lies. They may embellish, dramatize, or exaggerate their lies, treating them as natural without acknowledging them as false. As a result, this behavior does not present itself as a problem to them.

How Do People with Mythomania Behave?

Individuals with mythomania frequently lie in their daily lives, leading to a distorted sense of reality. To make themselves look better, feel better, or draw attention, they fabricate exaggerated stories. They may lie about trivial matters, such as the places they’ve visited or what they’ve eaten. These individuals often dramatize events, invent accidents that never occurred, or claim to have met people they’ve never encountered.

Believing their own lies, they insist on their accuracy even when confronted. If their lies are exposed, they may shift the narrative with another falsehood. They tend to lie to cover up failures in their professional or personal lives and avoid accepting responsibility for any harm caused.

Can Mythomania (Pathological Lying Disorder) Be Treated?

Although pathological lying disorder is treatable, the individual must first recognize their condition and desire treatment. Depending on the underlying problem or situation, different methods such as psychotherapy or medication may be employed.

What Does “Pathological Liar” Mean?

People who habitually lie in their daily lives and cannot control this tendency are referred to as pathological liars. These individuals are prone to lying about almost any topic, regardless of its significance. Lying becomes such a natural reflex that they are unable to control it. Pathological lying is associated with a condition known as mythomania.

Pathological liars exaggerate events, fabricate stories, or present completely false incidents as true. They may also claim to have met individuals they have never encountered. Moreover, they themselves believe the lies they tell.

What is the Difference Between Pathological Lies and White Lies?

Pathological lying is a serious psychological issue that can affect both the liar’s life and the lives of those around them. It may also point to an underlying problem. By contrast, white lies are relatively harmless and offer temporary solutions. Pathological lying can lead to trust issues in a person’s life, while white lies are less likely to cause such damage. The distinctions can be summarized as follows:

White Lies

• Typically told to resolve a specific situation or gain an advantage.
• Are controlled and less frequent.
• The person is aware of the truth behind the lie.
• Do not harm relationships in the short term.

Pathological Lies

• Result from uncontrollable impulses without a clear reason in daily life.
• Are constant and impulsive in nature.
• The individual believes their own lies and defends them.
• Over time, they cause trust issues, leading to negative impacts on relationships in the long term.

This content was prepared by Yeditepe University Hospitals Medical Editorial Board.

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