Behind The Mask: Understanding Pathological Liars (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9798269915500)

Why do some people lie even when there's nothing to gain?
Why does truth seem to threaten them - and why do others get trapped in their stories?

Behind the Mask explores the hidden psychology of pathological lying, one of the most misunderstood forms of human behavior. Combining psychological theory, neuroscience, and real-world observation, this book reveals how chronic deceit is formed, sustained, and justified - and how it damages trust, identity, and emotional safety.

Divided into four sections, the book guides readers through both clinical understanding and personal impact:

• Part I - Understanding the Phenomenon:
  Defines pathological lying and its roots in emotion, cognition, and personality. Explores the difference between everyday deception and compulsive lying, as well as overlaps with narcissism and psychopathy.

• Part II - In Practice:
  Examines how deception unfolds in relationships, families, workplaces, and online spaces. It shows how pathological liars manipulate emotion, distort reality, and create dependency through gaslighting and control.

• Part III - Consequences and Coping:
  Focuses on the emotional aftermath for victims - including betrayal trauma, self-doubt, and psychological disorientation - and offers practical guidance on boundaries, healing, and rebuilding self-trust.

• Part IV - Reflection and Integration:
  Expands the view to society as a whole - exploring collective deception in media, politics, and culture - before closing with a philosophical and moral reflection on truth, authenticity, and integrity in modern life.

Rooted in psychological research yet written in an accessible, human voice, Behind the Mask invites readers, students, and professionals alike to confront one of humanity's oldest and most painful paradoxes:

We lie to protect ourselves - yet only truth can make us whole.