The psychology of a liar often involves low self-esteem, a desire to maintain a false self-image, or the impulse to control situations. Lying can be driven by various motives like avoiding consequences, gaining sympathy or status, or protecting against shame. Pathological lying, or lying without a clear motive that has a negative impact, is sometimes a symptom of underlying mental health conditions like narcissistic or antisocial personality disorder, while the act of lying itself can be mentally exhausting and lead to negative emotions.*

*-according to AI