Why young school children (6-12 years) lie - 6 reasons

So your young child is blurting out some lies. Your start wondering why! Here are some reasons why children lie.

1. Lying is a sign of development and growing independence

Children of this age are developing and are asserting their independence. They do not see the need to share all their information with you. Their growing independence and the need to keep things to themselves, are the triggers for lies. Sometimes, they will also do it, to prevent your from prying and asking more questions.

2. A conscious decision to lie

Older children in this age range, may make a conscious decision to lie because

• They hope they will not be caught
• They hope to postpone the consequences till later
• They want to get a short term gain. Children of this age often think of "crossing the bridge when we get there". Their thinking is very short term and not long term.

3. Emulating their friends or family

Children may lie because their friends or siblings or family are doing it and getting away with it.

4. Social need 

For older kids in this age range, there may be the early stages of feeling peer pressure. The need to keep up with other kids, may force children to lie.

5. Stress

Emotional stress can also be a factor in lying. They may feel the need to appear better than they are or may feel pressure not to make a mistake or pressure to do something or it may be competitive feelings. This stress can cause them to lie.

6. Seeking attention

Children of this age, like anyone else, want attention from those around them - friends, family etc., Lies and over-the-top claims may just be a way of seeking and trying to get attention.