{"id":73401,"date":"2021-12-30T16:32:27","date_gmt":"2021-12-30T16:32:27","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/?p=73401"},"modified":"2026-03-19T09:00:08","modified_gmt":"2026-03-19T09:00:08","slug":"deal-with-a-pathological-liar","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/mental-health\/deal-with-a-pathological-liar\/","title":{"rendered":"15 Ways How to Deal With a Pathological Liar in a Relationship"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

\"Woman<\/p>\n

Trust is the foundation of every relationship, and once it’s broken, rebuilding it can feel impossible. <\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

Imagine constantly questioning your partner’s words, unsure if they’re being truthful or spinning yet another lie. You start to doubt yourself, second-guessing <\/span>every conversation<\/span><\/a>, and the emotional toll is overwhelming.<\/span><\/p>\n

What do you do when the person you love manipulates the truth so often that you don’t know where reality ends and deception begins? <\/span><\/p>\n

Do you confront them? Do you try to fix it? Or do you simply walk away? <\/span><\/p>\n

If you’re asking yourself, “How to deal with a pathological liar?” or thinking, “My husband is a pathological liar,” you’re not alone.<\/span><\/p>\n

Pathological lying is often tied to deeper psychological issues, making it even harder to manage. Some <\/span>research<\/span><\/a> from 2007 shows that issues affecting the central nervous system of the brain might be linked to pathological lying.<\/p><\/div><\/span><\/p>\n

So, it’s often more complex than just a bad habit.<\/span><\/p>\n

If you’re married to a pathological liar or struggling in a relationship where lies are constant, this article is here to help. Discover the causes behind their behavior and mindful ways to address it. <\/span><\/p>\n

<\/span>Who is a pathological liar?<\/b><\/span><\/h2>\n

A pathological liar deals with pathological lying. <\/span>Pathological lying<\/span><\/a> is a <\/span>mental disorder in which a person habitually or compulsively lies, even when there are no obvious reasons for them to lie.<\/b><\/p>\n

Since they tend to lie habitually, clinical studies reveal no concrete motives for the actions of pathological liars. However, there seems to be some evidence from a medical study that challenges with an individual’s central nervous system can predispose them to become pathological liars.<\/span><\/p>\n

Considering these,<\/span> being in a romantic relationship<\/span><\/a> with a pathological liar can easily prove to be one of the most difficult things you may experience in your lifetime.<\/span><\/p>\n

RELATED QUIZ : <\/span>Are You a Pathological Liar Quiz<\/a><\/span><\/div><\/div>\n

<\/span>Pathological liar vs. compulsive liar<\/b><\/span><\/h2>\n

Lying in relationships can be incredibly damaging, but not all lies are the same. <\/span><\/p>\n

If you’ve found yourself thinking, “My partner is a pathological liar” or struggling with how to deal with a liar in a relationship, understanding the difference between pathological and compulsive lying can help. Both types of liars twist the truth, but their reasons for doing so are quite different.<\/span><\/p>\n

Here’s a breakdown to help you identify which one you’re dealing with:<\/span><\/p>\n

\n\n\n\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t
Pathological liar<\/th>Compulsive liar<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
Lies are often elaborate and driven by a need to manipulate or control.<\/td>Lies out of habit, often without a clear motive or benefit.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Typically does not feel guilt or remorse, even when caught.<\/td>May feel bad about lying but struggles to stop the behavior.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Lies serve a purpose, such as gaining attention or avoiding consequences.<\/td>Lies automatically, even in situations where honesty wouldn\u2019t harm them.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/span>How does pathological lying affect relationships<\/b><\/span><\/h2>\n

As per<\/span> Maggie Martinez<\/span><\/a>, LCSW,<\/span><\/p>\n

The lack of remorse, guilt or discomfort from a pathological liar shows a lack of empathy and understanding for how their lie may have affected you.<\/span><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Pathological lying can unravel the fabric of any relationship. It causes confusion, mistrust, and emotional exhaustion. When the truth becomes a constant mystery, it’s hard to feel secure, valued, or understood. If you’ve ever caught yourself thinking, “My partner is a compulsive liar,” you know how draining it can be.<\/span><\/p>\n

So before you wrap your thoughts around how to deal with a pathological liar, here are some practical ways pathological lying affects relationships:<\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

<\/span>Causes of pathological lying<\/b><\/span><\/h2>\n

Generally speaking, medical reports reveal that<\/span> pathological lying has little or no known causes<\/span><\/a>. Medical data also reveal that <\/span>pathological lying can easily be a symptom of an <\/b>underlying problem<\/b><\/a> surrounding the person for which they should receive professional help. <\/span><\/p>\n

As a symptom of an underlying condition, pathological lying can also be a sign that the individual is battling with<\/b> Narcissistic Personality Disorder<\/b><\/a> (NPD), Antisocial Personality Disorder (APD), or Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). <\/b><\/p>\n

As per a science-based <\/span>report<\/span><\/a>, pathological lying usually starts small and builds momentum as time progresses.<\/p><\/div><\/span><\/p>\n

Considering the severity of these mental conditions, one of the best ways to deal with pathological liars after identifying them is by supporting them get professional help.<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/span>Signs your partner could be a pathological liar<\/b><\/span><\/h2>\n

There can be instances that force you to wonder how to deal with a pathological liar or even how to cope with a pathological liar on a daily basis. <\/span><\/p>\n

At times, you might even question how to end a relationship with a pathological liar for the sake of your peace and sanity.<\/span><\/p>\n

Spotting a pathological liar isn’t always easy, especially when their lies are woven so smoothly into everyday conversation. Here are some clear signs that might indicate you’re dealing with a pathological liar.<\/span><\/p>\n

1. They show no discomfort, even if they’re caught in the act<\/b><\/h4>\n

A pathological liar won’t flinch when caught in a lie.<\/b> For example, if you confront them about an inconsistency, they might act completely unfazed, offering another lie to cover up the first one. This lack of guilt or embarrassment can leave you wondering if you’re imagining things.<\/span><\/p>\n

2. Pathological liars are observant<\/b><\/h4>\n

They are extremely good at reading people, using small details to craft believable lies. <\/b>Imagine they pick up on your mood or specific details about your day and then create stories that fit into your world. <\/span><\/p>\n

It can be unsettling because they seem to know exactly what to say to keep you from suspecting them.<\/span><\/p>\n

3. Pathological lying usually starts small<\/b><\/h4>\n

At first, the lies might seem harmless, like exaggerating about a work situation or telling small white lies about their past. <\/span><\/p>\n

But over time, these lies snowball into bigger, more damaging falsehoods<\/b> that become harder to keep up with. Before you know it, you’re dealing with layers of deceit.<\/span><\/p>\n

4. A little probing can reveal their lies<\/b><\/h4>\n

Sometimes, asking a few clarifying questions can unravel their entire story. <\/b>For instance, if they mention an event and you ask for specific details, they might become defensive or fumble through their explanation. This probing often exposes the gaps in their elaborate tales.<\/span><\/p>\n

5. Their stories are usually inconsistent<\/b><\/h4>\n

One of the biggest red flags is inconsistency. <\/b>You might notice that their stories change over time—details that were mentioned once are forgotten or replaced. <\/span><\/p>\n

For example, they could tell you they were out with friends but later mention being home alone that night. These contradictions become more frequent as their web of lies grows.<\/span><\/p>\n

Even <\/span>Maggie Martinez<\/span><\/a> suggests,<\/span><\/p>\n

Pay attention to these differences because someone telling the truth will be fearlessly consistent.<\/span><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

RELATED READING : <\/span>15 Ways How to Deal With a Pathological Liar in a Relationship<\/a><\/span><\/div><\/div>\n

<\/span>How to deal with a pathological liar in a relationship<\/b><\/span><\/h2>\n

Dealing with a pathological liar in a relationship can be an emotional rollercoaster on loop. The constant barrage of lies makes you question reality and your instincts. Everyday life feels exhausting. <\/span><\/p>\n

When you catch them in another lie, your immediate reaction might be disbelief, frustration, or even anger. But over time, <\/span>it becomes essential to develop a coping mechanism.<\/b><\/p>\n

Broadly speaking, you’ll need to decide how much dishonesty you’re willing to tolerate<\/b> and whether you can see beyond the behavior to the deeper issues that may be driving it.  How to deal with a pathological liar <\/span>depends on your emotional resilience and what feels right for you in the relationship.<\/b><\/p>\n

<\/span>15 ways to deal with a pathological liar<\/b><\/span><\/h2>\n

\"Infidelity<\/p>\n

Lastly, let’s talk about the practical tips for dealing with a pathological liar:<\/span><\/p>\n

1. Have a conversation with yourself<\/b><\/h3>\n

If you want<\/span> to keep the relationship alive<\/span><\/a>, you have a lot of work ahead of you.<\/span> It helps to begin this journey by having a heart-to-heart with yourself. <\/b><\/p>\n

This is because it is impossible to help them get better when you haven’t yet admitted that there’s a need for them to be better. <\/span><\/p>\n

RELATED QUIZ : <\/span>Is My Boyfriend Keeping Things From Me Quiz<\/a><\/span><\/div><\/div>\n

2. Talk to them <\/b><\/h3>\n

This can be tricky because the knee-jerk reaction of a pathological liar would be to rebuff your submission when you have told them what you’ve noticed. <\/span><\/p>\n

However, it helps to approach them<\/b> when they are in a good mood<\/b><\/a>.<\/b> This way, they may be more open to your words. <\/span><\/p>\n

3. When talking to them, how you present your case is vital <\/b><\/h3>\n

When talking to them<\/span><\/a>, <\/span>it helps to present your case in a way that isn’t judgemental or makes them feel spooked. <\/b><\/p>\n

As a rule of thumb, you may want to use mild statements to drive your point home. Then again, if they start<\/span> feeling defensive<\/span><\/a>, let down a bit and allow some time to pass before bringing up the subject again.<\/span><\/p>\n

RELATED QUIZ : <\/span>Why Did He Stop Talking to Me Quiz<\/a><\/span><\/div><\/div>\n

4. Mentally prepare yourself against their verbal jabs and lies <\/b><\/h3>\n

Now that you have identified them for who they truly are, <\/span>take out some time to mentally prepare yourself against their verbal jabs and lies. <\/b><\/p>\n

Once the pathological liar knows that you are onto them, they would most likely resort<\/span> to trying manipulative schemes on you<\/span><\/a>. This is also a great time for you to take everything they tell you with a pinch of salt. <\/span><\/p>\n

5. Do away with the blame game <\/b><\/h3>\n

Remember that the person who is telling these lies may not intend to do you any harm with them.<\/b> <\/span><\/p>\n

They may just be responding to the inner compulsion they feel and may even have to beat themselves up afterward. This is why you should do your best not to blame them when you have identified their lies, especially if you<\/span> seek to strengthen the relationship<\/span><\/a>. <\/span><\/p>\n

RELATED QUIZ : <\/span>Is My Husband Verbally Abusive Quiz<\/a><\/span><\/div><\/div>\n

6. Pay attention and call them out <\/b><\/h3>\n

When you have<\/span> identified their lies<\/span><\/a>, <\/span>one of the most effective ways to call them out is by using facts to let them know that some of the details of their stories do not add up. <\/b><\/p>\n

Calling out a pathological liar is tricky because it alerts them that you are onto them, and they may respond by telling another bunch of lies to cover up their tracks. <\/span><\/p>\n

But if you are trying to figure out how to stop pathological lying, you would have to let them know that you are paying keen attention. <\/span><\/p>\n

Here’s a helpful video on how to deal with emotional manipulation:<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n