Mother’s Dilemma: My Son Takes Things Without Borrowing

Lying – or fantasizing – can constitute periods, phases or even episodes throughout life. But it is considered a disease when it starts to cause damage or involves more serious suffering, such as anxiety, depression or phobias. “It is common for children between 6 and 10 years of age not to have understood the concept of truth and lies”, points out Helio Deliberador, professor of social psychology at the Pontifical Catholic University of São Paulo. They live in a fantasy world and are unaware of the impact that omission of reality can cause. “However, at age 15, the behavior deserves more attention.” In adolescents, these episodes may arise as a result of fear or insecurity. Talk to his children (the one with the problem and siblings) and the teachers at school to see if he feels generally out of place or if he has been trying to join a new group that doesn’t accept him. “If the behavior starts to disturb the life of the young person and the people who live with him, it is advisable to consult a professional”, says Ricardo Monezi, a psychologist at the Federal University of São Paulo.

There are also cases of teenagers who develop a compulsion to lie. “The situation becomes more serious if there is theft of valuables, such as money and jewelry”, points out psychologist Tereza Amorim, founder and director of the Instituto Carioca de Gestalt-Therapy. “If that happens, professional follow-up becomes essential.” One of the possible disorders is mythomania, in which the individual lies about harmless matters (such as saying that he watched a movie he did not see or that he has traveled to a place he has never been). already on the call Pinocchio syndrome, the person really believes the false story and does not realize what he is doing🇧🇷 If you suspect these behaviors, talk to a psychiatrist.

See also 8 lies that children tell.

In all cases and degrees, parents need to show that they have discovered the lie and at the same time they must value when the child or adolescent speaks the truth. “It’s right to call the child’s attention and listen to what he has to say, even if the strategy seems unproductive”, highlights Monezi. “Conversation, patience and a lot of observation, at home and away from it, to monitor whether attitudes decrease or worsen, are fundamental”, explains the specialist.

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