Psychology of deception

The psychology of deception explores why people lie or hide the truth, and how they do it. It involves understanding motives such as self-interest, avoiding harm, or gaining advantage, as well as cognitive processes like controlling their words and actions. Researchers study cues like facial expressions, body language, and speech patterns that sometimes reveal dishonesty. While deception can be conscious or unconscious, psychological theories aim to identify patterns and strategies people use when deceiving, helping in areas like law enforcement, therapy, and everyday interactions. Ultimately, it’s about understanding the complex interplay between motivation, cognition, and communication.