Deceit

Pop culture often suggests we can identify liars through simple "tells" like looking away or touching one's nose, but experts warn these are far from foolproof. Instead of a single "Pinocchio's nose," look for and deviations from a person's baseline . Paul Ekman, PhD's post - Facebook

Exaggerating achievements to gain group approval. deceit

We’ve all done it. Whether it’s a “white lie” about liking a friend’s cooking or a strategic omission in a high-stakes negotiation, deceit is woven into the fabric of human interaction. While often viewed negatively, deception is a complex psychological and evolutionary tool that serves a variety of surprising purposes. The Evolutionary Roots of "The Lie" Pop culture often suggests we can identify liars

Many lies are "altruistic," intended to spare someone’s feelings or protect them from harm. We’ve all done it

The Art of the Untruth: Why Deception is a Universal Human Trait

To avoid punishment, criticism, or embarrassment.

In some cases, deceit is a coping mechanism for those with low self-esteem, providing a temporary (if false) sense of control over their life. Can You Really "Spot" a Liar?