Pathological lying is not a formal psychiatric diagnosis or mental illness in and of itself. However, it can be a symptom of various psychiatric disorders, such as personality disorders, bipolar disorder, and borderline personality disorder.
People who engage in pathological lying may have difficulty distinguishing between reality and fantasy, or they may lie to achieve a specific goal or to avoid negative consequences. Pathological lying can also be a learned behavior or a result of past trauma or abuse.
Treatment for pathological lying typically involves addressing any underlying psychiatric conditions or addressing the behavior directly through therapy or counseling. It’s important to note that treatment can be challenging, as individuals who engage in pathological lying may be resistant to acknowledging or changing their behavior.