The mildest form of deception is awhite lie.
We all do it from time to time.
Deception can also involve more serious offenses, like cheating or gaslighting.
skynesher / Getty Images
We also ask a relationship expert for some tips on how to rebuild trust in relationships.
However, deception can be harmful to relationships because it undercuts trust.
Inconsistent stories, unusual behaviors, evasivebody language, and defensive reactions are some of the signs of deception.
Lying
While deception and lying are very similar, theyre not exactly the same thing.
Lyingrefers specifically to the act of making a false statement.
It can involve actions, words, or omissions.
Lying is essentially a smaller subset of deceptive behavior.
Omitting information can definitely be a form of deception.
We may worry about how it would affect their view of us.
Or, we may go to a party where we bump into our ex.
However, if they ever find out, theyll probably be more mad that they werent told about it.
Why Do People Deceive Their Partners?
Deception harms a relationship because it erodes trust on both sides.
Trust,honesty, and authenticity are the founding pillars of relationships.
Warneken F, Orlins E.Children tell white lies to make others feel better.Br J Dev Psychol.
2019;14(12):e0225566.
2023;20(5):3904. doi:10.3390/ijerph20053904
