How To Be A Human Lie Detector
Whether it's a small lie or a big one, there are many ways to tell if someone is lying. Here are a few red flags to look out for:
Using a catastrophic event as an excuse.
Unfortunately, bad things do happen and tragic events do take place. However, watch when these tend to turn up. People may fabricate a catastrophic event such as a serious illness, a distance relative passing, or flat tire on the road as a way to deflect blame or accountability. This is actually pretty clever, because most people will immediately back off and forgo asking further questions. The person being lied to will likely even apologize and give more leeway to the liar. Keep an eye out if these tragic events coincide with any unfulfilled deadlines, obligations, or promises.
Talking in the 3rd person.
When someone chooses to talk about themselves in the third person, it can be a way of placing distance between themselves and any type of wrongful act they’ve committed. “I’m not that guy anymore.” “I don’t recognize that person.” “Jane Smith would never do that.” It’s an easy tactic to make you believe the person who wronged you is now a completely different person – when in fact, it’s obviously still them.
Not answering at all.
Long pauses or silence after being asked a direct question can be a huge indication of deception. When the liar doesn’t see the question coming, their F3 kicks in, causing them to freeze as they frantically try to think of what to say or what lie to spin. The truth is simple and a person should be able to respond spontaneously, especially if you’re asking about something related to a simple memory recall, such as, “Did you go out last night?”
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