How Does a Person Act When Lying?

Nervous

Knowingly providing false information makes a person nervous in some way. Although some people lie more successfully than others, in general there is some uneasiness or trepidation felt by the liar. Nervous behaviors can be verbal or non-verbal. Verbal cues include stuttering as well as monotonous speech interrupted by non-fluencies such as "um." Nonverbal cues include sweating, blinking and touching or scratching any part of the face.

Anxious

When the lie is set forth, liars tend to change positions which displays both a physical and emotional discomfort. They are often anxious for the focus of a conversation to be diverted away from the lie as soon as possible. Therefore, they may avoid eye contact by turning away. They become anxious to change the subject or downplay the significance of what was said. They may interrupt others who continue discussing the lie or sit back and shrug their shoulders in hopes the conversation will soon end.

Defensive

If the lie is not readily believed, the liar may become defensive. In order for the lie to be believed, those it was presented to must consider the source to be credible. Therefore, the liar may fidget while being questioned or become uncooperative. Questions such as "You don't believe me?" or "Why would I lie?" may be asked by the liar to avoiding having to answer the questions asked. The liar may speak in a high-pitched voice.

Hyperactive

Lies are often told with some hesitation initially. However, when those lies are questioned, liars seem less reluctant to tell additional lies. After all, deception is deception. Additional lies may be told in a more animated manner such as hands flailing or a higher vocal tonation. Increased movement at this point is usually the result of defensiveness. When lies are challenged, liars feel threatened. They may repeat the lie in a more emotionally charged manner which might include cursing or swearing.

Resources

• To Know Myself
• Detecting Deception