Everyone has told at least one lie in his or her lifetime, but few possess the cunning required to truly master the act of lying as an art form. Although the term “chronic liar” implies skillful deception and craftiness, there are several characteristics of this condition which should make the individual in question more easily recognizable. The most significant of these to look for are shifty eyes, a defensive attitude, and the ability to cry on cue.
First, shifty eyes are the most obvious characteristic to look for when you suspect a compulsive liar. Even the most skilled liar will find it extremely difficult to meet your eyes for more than a fleeting instant while he or she elaborates on the lie. To compensate for this evasive gaze, the liar will in turn focus all of his or her attention on you while listening to your response in an attempt to appear innocent. Sometimes, the guilty individual will go so far as to create a distraction to divert your attention from his elusive eyes. Distractions include fidgeting with hands, clothes, inanimate objects - anything to avert your eyes from his own. Shifty eyes will most definitely be the easiest characteristic to recognize.
A defensive attitude serves as another sign of a habitual liar. The individual might give this attitude away through body language by crossing his or her arms in front of himself in a protective manner. The liar will most definitely defend himself in an irrational and belligerent way at even the slightest sign of unbelief on your part. The most talented compulsive liar will even be able to leave you feeling guilty for not believing him after your subjection to his defensive tactics. Often, the liar will exert an anxious, desperate aura during such displays. A defensive attitude is a dangerous and often successful characteristic of the chronic liar to be made aware of.
Finally, the ability to cry on cue is perhaps the single most effective attribute of a habitual liar. This ability is most often used as a last resort when it has become evident that the lie is not yet believed. Such a passionate show of emotion appears dangerously genuine, especially when the actor is male. No matter how observant the recipient of the lie has been throughout the ordeal, his or her convictions are sure to waver at this point. The ability to cry on cue is the chronic liar's strongest weapon and all too often succeeds.
In conclusion, the compulsive liar can be identified by three main characteristics: shifty eyes, a defensive behavior, and the ability to cry on cue. Learn to spot the attributes. Don't become a victim!
