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Behavior List

Honesty & Responsibility: Lying



What's Happening:

Lying often stems from fear, shame, or desire to avoid consequences. It signals emotional safety concerns, not moral failure.
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Option A: Gentle / Connection-Based Response
Use this when honesty feels unsafe.
How to do it:
Stay calm
Keep your tone neutral

What to say:
"It's safe to tell the truth."

Why it works: Safety encourages honesty.

Option B: Trauma-Informed / Nervous System Support
Use this when lying is linked to anxiety.
How to do it:
Reduce shame
Reassure connection

What to say:
"You're not in trouble for telling me."

Why it works: Fear blocks truth-telling.

Option C: Calm Boundary + Skill-Building
Use this when lying is habitual.
How to do it:
Address the behavior
Teach repair

What to say:
"Honesty matters. Let's fix this together."

Why it works: Accountability without shame builds trust.
NOT THAT

Public shaming
Harsh punishment
Interrogation

Teach the Skill

Role-play telling the truth and repairing mistakes.

Learn how to teach the skills.



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This guide is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical, psychological, or mental health care. Adapt strategies to meet individual needs.
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