big lies, but what we call 'white lies'. The only real questions are about when
we lie and who we tell lies to. A recent study showed that people often tell
'white lies'. Here are some ways they do it.
Lying to hide something: People usually lie because they want to hide
something from someone. For example, a son doesn't tell his parents that he
is dating a girl because he doesn't think they will like her. Instead, he says he
is going out with his friends.
Giving false excuses: Sometimes people lie because they don't want to do
something. For instance, someone invites you to a party to which you don't
want to go because you think it will be boring. Therefore, you say that you
are busy and can't come.
Lying to make someone feel good: You often don't tell the truth to make
someone feel good. To illustrate, your friend cooks dinner for you, but it
tastes terrible. Do you say so? No! You probably say, "Mmm, this is
delicious!"
Lying to hide bad news: There are times we don't want to tell someone bad
news. For example, you have just had a very bad day at work, but you don't
want to talk about it. Hence, if someone asks you about your day, you just
say everything was fine.
Telling white lies isn't really all bad. Most of the time people do it because
they want to protect a friendship.
