Pathology of Lying, Accusation, and Swindling: A Study in Forensic Psychology

The author defines pathological lying as persistent falsification disproportionate to any apparent motive and distinguishes it from deceit arising from insanity, epilepsy, or intellectual defect. Using a wide literature review and longitudinal case material from a juvenile psychopathic institute, the study examines clinical profiles of habitual liars, false accusers, and compulsive swindlers and traces how imaginative fabrication may develop into deliberate fraud. Chapters summarize prior research, present representative case studies across normal and borderline mental types, and delineate diagnostic criteria. The work concludes by outlining forensic and legal implications and practical considerations for clinicians and court officials confronting mendacious behavior.