Posted inMental Health

Pathological Liar Test: Am I a Compulsive Liar?

Posted inMental Health

Assessment Overview: This test consists of 15 questions and takes approximately 5-7 minutes to complete.

Rate each statement based on how accurately it describes your behavior and feelings. Answer honestly for the most accurate results. This is a screening assessment and not a clinical diagnosis.

I frequently tell lies even when the truth would work just as well.
I find it easy to lie without feeling guilty or remorseful afterward.
I exaggerate or embellish stories to make myself look better or more interesting.
People have told me that my stories often contradict each other.
I lie about trivial or unimportant matters that don’t really affect anything.
I get a rush or sense of excitement when I successfully deceive someone.
I become defensive or irritated when someone questions the truthfulness of my statements.
I’ve told so many lies that I sometimes have trouble remembering what the truth is.
I fabricate detailed stories that never actually happened.
My lying has damaged relationships with friends, family, or romantic partners.
I lie spontaneously without planning or thinking about the consequences.
I’ve retold someone else’s experience as if it happened to me.
I feel compelled to lie even in situations where honesty would be easier.
I create elaborate lies to gain sympathy, admiration, or attention from others.
People close to me have expressed concern about my honesty or trustworthiness.
Please answer all questions before viewing your results.
0
out of 75 points
Important Notice: This assessment is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you’re concerned about your lying behavior or its impact on your life, please consult a licensed mental health professional for proper evaluation and support.

References

  • Curtis, D. A., & Hart, C. L. (2015). Pathological lying: Theoretical and empirical support for a diagnostic entity. Psychiatric Research and Clinical Practice, 2(2), 62-69. https://psychiatryonline.org/doi/10.1176/appi.prcp.20150013
  • Dike, C. C., Baranoski, M., & Griffith, E. E. (2005). Pathological lying revisited. The Journal of the American Academy of Psychiatry and the Law, 33(3), 342-349.
  • American Psychiatric Association. (2022). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed., text rev.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing.
  • Yang, Y., Raine, A., Lencz, T., Bihrle, S., LaCasse, L., & Colletti, P. (2005). Prefrontal white matter in pathological liars. The British Journal of Psychiatry, 187(4), 320-325.
  • Ekman, P. (2009). Telling Lies: Clues to Deceit in the Marketplace, Politics, and Marriage (Revised Edition). New York: W. W. Norton & Company.