What is factitious disorder? As George Santos' web of lies unravels, experts call his condition ‘pathological’
NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK: As scandal-ridden Republican New York Congressman George Santos's web of lies unravels, psychologists claim some people get so tangled in their lies that it becomes second nature, putting themselves at deviant risk usually to advance their professional or social status. Pathological lying is a condition clinically referred to as "factitious disorder," where a person vehemently lies without any remorse.
Congressman George Santos has allegedly come under fire for fabricating his resume and lying about his love life, family, educational, and business background. The lies had gotten so far that he now faces multiple criminal investigations, already jeopardizing his political career. The string of lies has forced the Republican congressman to resign from his committee assignments in the House of Representatives.
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George Santos's lies
The Republican lied about his family history suggesting he is of Jewish heritage and that his maternal grandparents escaped the Holocaust by moving to Brazil. It was later discovered that his maternal grandparents were Brazilian-born Catholics. He also lied about his mother's death, saying the 9/11 terror attacks "claimed my mother's life."
However, his own campaign website uncovered his mother worked in South Tower and was able to flee from her office in time before the attack. Santos's mother later died of cancer. Daily Mail revealed that the New York Rep. had previously gone by scores of different names such as Anthony Devolder, Anthony Zabrovsky, and Kitara Ravache.
What is factitious disorder?
Pathological lying and compulsive fabrication of fibs without lack of remorse are identified as "factitious disorder." Dr. Drew Curtis from Angelo State University in San Angelo, Texas, an expert in the psychology of pathological lying says, "With pathological lying, usually the lying causes more problems in their life, so they're losing their jobs or losing family. [There's] real impairment of functioning and they don't like the fact that they're doing it... but it usually is serving their career and their life."
Although many lie to protect themselves from unavoidable situations others lie to get ahead in their careers. Some people lie to seek approval or impress someone. Hence, pathological lying cannot only be identified as the root of insecurity but also a defense mechanism, claims research. Experts say that compulsive lying could be endured through emotional trauma, the fear of being neglected, or a mental disorder.
Dr. Curtis and his research partner Dr. Christian Hart claim the traits of pathological lying could be low self-esteem or sometimes because of having a dark, manipulative personality. "These people see everyone is a pawn in their game, and they are happy to manipulate people to get exactly what they want," Dr. Hart said. Around 13 percent of people think of themselves as pathological liars or are considered to be pathological liars by others. This psychological disorder could be treated through cognitive behavioral therapy and insurance coverage.