The Best Way to Stop Liars in Their Tracks
Psychology Today
by Susan Krauss Whitbourne PhD, ABPPFebruary 21, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Dealing with liars can be frustrating and emotionally draining, often leading to stress and anxiety. New research sheds light on how to combat deception by understanding the role of trust and social cues. According to a study from Zhejiang Normal University, people are more likely to tell the truth when they feel trusted. In one experiment, participants who believed they were being trusted lied half as often as those who felt their honesty was in question. This highlights the power of building trust in preventing deception.
The research also introduces the concept of "need for cognitive closure" (NFCC), which influences how individuals process information and make decisions about trust. Those low in NFCC are more attuned to social cues, such as body language and tone, when assessing whether someone is being honest. This means that people who take their time evaluating trust-related signals are less likely to rush into judgments and more likely to detect or prevent lies.
Understanding these dynamics matters for mental health because chronic exposure to deception can lead to emotional pain and strained relationships. By fostering an environment of trust and openness, individuals can reduce the likelihood of being deceived and protect their well-being. This approach not only strengthens personal connections but also helps maintain emotional resilience in the face of potential deceit.
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Originally published on Psychology Today on 2/21/2026