SOCIAL NEGLECTED MENTAL HEALTH CHALLENGES: The Case of Compulsive vs. Pathological Lying

By Prof. Dr. Halimu Shauri

Email, thecoastnewspaper@gmail.com

The old definition of health, particularly the one that was widely accepted in the early to mid-20th century, focused primarily on the absence of disease or infirmity.

This perspective viewed health in a rather binary way—either a person was healthy because they did not have any noticeable physical ailments, or they were unhealthy because they were afflicted by illness or disability.

This definition was primarily concerned with physical health and did not account for other dimensions of well-being.

Medical practice during this time was heavily centered around diagnosing and treating diseases, often overlooking the broader aspects of a person’s overall well-being.

The World Health Organization (WHO) introduced a more holistic definition of health in 1948, which marked a significant shift from the older, more narrow perspective. 

According to the WHO:

“Health is a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.”

This definition expanded the understanding of health to include mental and social dimensions, emphasizing that true health encompasses overall well-being and quality of life, rather than just the absence of illness.

This holistic approach paved the way for modern public health strategies and interventions that address a wide range of factors influencing health, including social determinants, lifestyle choices, and environmental conditions.

However, despite the expanded definition of health, in the realm of mental health, many challenges remain underrepresented and misunderstood.

Among these are compulsive and pathological lying—two social behaviors that, while seemingly similar, have distinct differences and profound implications on individuals’ lives and their relationships. 

Despite their prevalence, these issues often go unrecognized and untreated, leading to severe consequences for those affected.

Compulsive lying, also known as habitual or chronic lying, is characterized by a persistent, almost automatic tendency to lie. Individuals who engage in compulsive lying often fabricate stories or exaggerate truths, even when there is no apparent benefit or need to do so.

This social behavior is driven by an uncontrollable impulse, making it akin to an addiction.

Compulsive lying typically starts in childhood and may stem from a need for attention, approval, or a desire to avoid conflict and punishment.

Over time, this social behavior becomes ingrained, turning into a habitual response to various situations. Compulsive liars often lie about trivial matters, which can lead to a web of deception that is difficult to maintain and inevitably causes trust issues in personal and professional relationships.

Pathological lying, on the other hand, is a more severe and complex condition. It is also known as pseudologia fantastica or mythomania. 

Pathological liars fabricate elaborate and often fantastical stories that can be partially based on truth but are significantly embellished or false.

These lies are typically more strategic and manipulative than those of compulsive liars.

Unlike compulsive lying, pathological lying is often associated with underlying personality disorders, such as narcissistic personality disorder, borderline personality disorder, or antisocial personality disorder.

Pathological liars use deception to manipulate others for personal gain, whether it be for attention, power, or material benefits.

Their lies are often grandiose and can be maintained for long periods, making them difficult to detect and address.

Both compulsive and pathological lying can have detrimental effects on mental health.

Chronic deceit leads to increased stress, anxiety, and guilt, as individuals struggle to keep track of their lies and maintain their fabricated realities. 

This constant state of tension can contribute to more severe mental health issues, including depression and anxiety disorders.

For those affected by someone else’s compulsive or pathological lying, the impact can be equally damaging.

Trust is eroded, relationships are strained, and victims often experience confusion, frustration, and emotional distress. 

The ripple effect of these social behaviors extends beyond personal relationships, affecting professional and social interactions as well.

Addressing compulsive and pathological lying requires a multifaceted approach. Understanding the root causes and distinguishing between the two social behaviors is crucial for effective intervention.

Mental health professionals play a key role in diagnosing and treating these conditions, often employing a combination of therapy, counseling, and, in some cases, medication.

Cognitive-behavioral Therapy (CBT) is particularly effective in treating compulsive lying, as it helps individuals identify and modify the thought patterns and social behaviors that drive their lying.

For pathological liars, treatment is more complex and often involves addressing the underlying personality disorder through a comprehensive and long-term therapeutic approach.

One of the most significant barriers to addressing compulsive and pathological lying is the lack of awareness and understanding. 

Public education campaigns, mental health awareness programs, and professional training can help demystify these social behaviors and encourage those affected to seek help.

By reducing the stigma associated with these conditions, society can create a more supportive environment for individuals to come forward and receive the treatment they need.

Finally, allow me to conclude by saying compulsive and pathological lying are neglected mental health challenges that require greater attention and understanding.

By recognizing the differences between these social behaviors and addressing the underlying causes, we can pave the way for effective treatment and support. It is essential to foster a compassionate and informed approach to these issues, ensuring that those affected can lead healthier, and more honest lives