Why Do People Lie? By Shahida Arabi
To preserve their self-image. Whether it be minor white lies that exaggerate one’s accomplishments or elaborate tall tales that omit important information about one’s shady character, those who are led to lie for this reason are attempting to preserve their self-image. They want to engage in “impression management” so that others perceive them in the best possible light. A politician might fib about an extramarital affair so he can preserve his reputation for moral propriety. An employee might lie about why she is chronically late to work, blaming it on her commute, when in reality, it is her inability to wake up early in the morning.
