Imposter Syndrome

Why lie or masquerade?

1. To avoid being punished for a purposeful misdeed versus an honest mistake.

2. To obtain a reward not otherwise readily obtainable like falsely claiming work experience during a job interview to increase chances of hire.

3. To protect another person from being punished as with occurrences between coworkers, friends, family, and even with strangers.

4. To protect oneself from the threat of physical harm.

5. To win the admiration of others by telling lies to increase my popularity from “little white lies” to enhance a story being told all the way to creating an entirely fabricated persona because what really existed was dull or enmeshed in diversity not accustomed by the group.*

6. To get out of an awkward social situation like getting out of a dull party or ending a telephone conversation by saying there is someone at the door.

7. To avoid embarrassment.

8. To maintain privacy without notifying others of that intention. For example, claiming to plan elopement because the cost of a wedding is beyond our means when, in reality, we’re avoiding the obligation to invite their friends.

*More in-depth personalizatioto follow in upcoming posts.