How to Know if Someone Is Lying

Instructions
1
Look for body language that
might indicate someone is lying,
such as not looking you in the
eye when speaking to you, being
fidgety, or acting nervous or
uncomfortable.
2
Listen for inconsistencies in what
the person tells you, such as
different stories on different
days, different time frames,
mistakes in remembering details
or mixing up details.
3
Notice if the person steadfastly
resists answering any questions.
Extreme defensiveness could
mean that he or she is trying to
hide something.
4
Notice if the person accuses you
of lying or being deceitful when
you really haven't been. This
could reflect the other person's
own underlying behavior, which
he or she is projecting onto you
rather than owning up to it.
5
Listen to your gut and intuition.
You may just know someone is
lying. If you are not sure, don't
jump to conclusions. Try to get
some evidence to back up your
hunch.
6
Consider asking directly if the
person has lied to you. Many
people feel bad getting caught up
in lies, and find it a relief to finally
be honest.
7
Try to be understanding and
listen to the person's reasons for
lying. Was he trying not to hurt
you? Was she afraid you would
be angry, upset or disappointed?
8
Look at your possible role in
having someone lie to you. Are
you someone who gets so upset
hearing the truth that others feel
they can't be honest with you?