Normal Lying vs. Compulsive Lying
While dishonesty is generally frowned upon, it is important to distinguish between normal lying and compulsive lying. According to a definition established by Healy and Healy in 1915, compulsive lying is characterized by excessive and chronic deceit. Pathological liars are known to engage in a relentless pattern of lying, often to the point where it becomes impulsive and beyond their control. For a diagnosis of mythomania to be made, this behavior must be consistent from adolescence to early adulthood. It is common for individuals with this disorder to start distorting the truth during their teenage years, with many cases being identified in their early 20s.
Mythomania and its Relationship with Other Mental Health Disorders
Mythomania, also known as pseudologia fantastica (PF), can be associated with various mental health disorders, including borderline personality disorder (BPD), narcissistic personality disorder (NPD), and antisocial personality disorder (ASPD). However, there are notable distinctions between PF and these other conditions. While individuals with ASPD are typically deceitful for personal gain, this motive is often not present in people with PF. In fact, a study revealed that only half of the subjects with PF were believed to have engaged in criminal activities. Furthermore, individuals with PF tend to be non-violent and do not recklessly endanger others, unlike those with NPD or BPD. It is crucial to distinguish between these disorders and mythomania in order to accurately diagnose and provide appropriate treatment.