Why do people lie?

Question

Why do people lie? Especially when they know they will get caught.

Answer 1

In general, people lie for about three or four different reasons.

1- To protect themselves.
2- To protect another person.
3- To get something they want.
4- Out of compulsion, with no reason.

Without fail, every instance of deception will fall under those. "White" lies are lies people use to keep an ugly truth veiled, and all other types of lies are used by everyone, every single day. There is no such thing as a 100% honest person, and it is one of the most peculiar behaviors humans partake in.

People are usually aware they will eventually be caught and turn to deceit in order to prevent it. This logic is consistently flawed and repeated, and chances are nothing will ever keep people from lying if they feel so inclined to do so.

Answer 2

I'd first like to say, (having scanned some of the answers), that rupertscarr's examples of reasons are very good. I do not, however agree with the last paragraph, (& perhaps another reason could be added...), that they're aware they'll be caught. Most liars I've dealt with in my profession NEVER anticipate getting caught. They do get get caught, but they're always genuinely surprised. One reason I'd add, that the liar BELIEVES in their own lie. They are sincerely perplexed when negative consequence occur, & this kind of liar is the most difficult to help.

Answer 3

Maybe it is the thrill of trying not to get caught.......Maybe it is because they have nothing more to do.......People lie for many different reasons.....Have you never told a lie to get out of trouble? If so then you should already know why people lie......

Answer 4

The answer "lies" in their personality. Some people are born with certain inherent wiring's...others are not. Want to see how you stack up: http://www.humanmetrics.com/cgi-win/JTypes2.asp

Fun way to learn about yourself and those around you. Be amazed at what a 10 minute test can do for you and those around you.

Bottom line: Some people lie to protect others while others lie to protect themselves.

Answer 5

Because they don't want to face the consequences of what they;ve done. They're usually working on the lie they'll use when they do get caught.

Answer 6

perhaps it's 1 art 4 them 2 lie. they prefer 2 lie than talk the truth.

Answer 7

Adults lie as a way of protecting their privacy and to deter further snooping on part of a nosy person.

I always told the truth as a kid and got into all sorts of trouble.

Answer 8

On any serious topic I will tell the truth. The truth will set you free, they say. And it really will. When was the last time you felt bad or guilty for telling the truth? Not feeling bad about what you did, but just the fact that you told the truth.

Sometimes it's fun to joke around, though.

Answer 9

most lie cause there people.the only time they tell the truth is when there caught, an even then they deny it,but sooner or later the truth comes out,an then they want forgiveness,,bab hum bug.u made ur bed lay in it..

Answer 10

Its easy to lie than to tell the true.Dont deal with liars!! Your heart will be broken many times.