Whether we like to admit it or not, we have ALL told lies, and for most people, it eats away at their conscience. For most of us, it is something as simple as a "little white lie" that can be made up to protect our privacy, or someone else's feelings. Nonetheless, it leaves us feeling guilty, no matter how good the intention. Manipulators, however, feel no guilt, and are intentional liars. They know people's weak points, and use those wants and desires to their advantage (and usually to others' dis advantage). Then there are pathological liars, who make up so many stories, they begin to believe it themselves. These liars have trouble distinguishing between truth and reality.
Although we don't really think about it, magicians are excellent liars. They say they are doing one thing, when in actuality, they are doing something completely different. Many people find this a fun sort of amusement, seeing if they can catch the manipulator at their "trick".
Manipulators are magicians, in a way. They divert our attention so we don't see the lie. They lie to get something they want. The reward system is used by many liars. They promise some sort of treat; be it a raise, more opportunities to see the grandkids, etc. if only you will do XYZ. They usually know full well that they do not intend to actually grant that wish. People skilled at lying are able to excuse not following through on a particular reward because they are very good at a kind of bait and switch routine. They can shift your focus from a promised happy reward to a fearful loss. One example would be the promise of a promotion if you do XYZ. The dupe does what is required, but the skilled liar bait and switches, and claims that if you don't keep doing XYZ, you could earn yourself a demotion. These types of liars are very practiced, and it is difficult to figure out just when the lie started.
Most addicts become pathological liars. Anyone close to an addict knows they are going to "lie to me". The person being lied to is hopeful with each new lie, that the addict really means it this time. The addict, on the other hand, may or may not mean it. They may actually believe at the time they are lying, that they will follow through. This is why the person being lied to believes the addict, because they are so convincing. They are convincing because at the time they say it, they are being "honest". A person being lied to by an addict repeatedly, experiences disappointment, anger, frustration and uncertainty. Unfortunately, without help, an addict will continue to lie, and worst yet, eventually accepts the lies they have told as fact.
To spare another's feelings.
To avoid the consequences of something one's done wrong.
To get out of doing something one doesn't want to do.
To manipulate a person into doing what one wants.
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