compulsive liar

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Permalink Reply by James Malone on August 23, 2009 at 4:13am

Deena, obviously you will have to do a thorough intake. I would be on the lookout for the time in the client's life when lying came to be seen as beneficial. For example, during the client's younger years was there some sort of out of the ordinary fear and tension within the family where lying was an understandable protective measure? Or perhaps there was a sense of not measuring up and lying was done as an ego-boost. As Adrian mentioned, a regression to cause might be helpful.

Also, suggestions and imagery that excite the client about how great it is now that she has left behind that old negative behavior she had up until now and is now moving forward, beginning to live a life filled with integrity, confidence, etc. General ego-strengthening suggestions would also be a good idea.

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Permalink Reply by John Cleesattel on August 23, 2009 at 6:03am

Deena,
Compulsive lying is usually a defense mechanism that has been turned into a habit. It is easier to tell people what you think they want to hear, rather than the truth, which may involve complications. I would agree with your assumption about the subconscious source, and do parts therapy to find out what the purpose is, then go from there.

John

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Permalink Reply by Kelley Woods on August 23, 2009 at 9:01am

I would have the client define the reasons that one lies, specifically the benefits derived from lying, and then help the client reframe those justifications and find healthier solutions. When we look honestly at motivation we can often find alternative choices to pursue. A good homework assignment would be for your client to write down the perceived gains received from being deceitful. Of course, one automatically then thinks of the downsides of such behavior, reinforcing the desire for change. To help with the new behavior, it is vital to assign a new, healthier action and let your client choose markers to remind himself of the new direction to take.

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Permalink Reply by Bruce Taylor on August 23, 2009 at 9:15am

Deena,
I would first find out if he is motivated for change. If so I would regress to cause and work to de-sensitize that ISE and any SSE's. Then from what is learned during regression (regression allows the therapist to "undo" the effects of the incident or incidents that have formed the problem) work on those issues such as confidence for example and any other issues such as a secondary gain issue.

Bruce Taylor

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