Situation · Partners and dating

“He lies about small stupid things”

What could be going on

Lies easily without discomfort: Check whether he lies without visible discomfort and sticks to the story when caught.

Shame: Small lies often cover things he feels ashamed of; check what the lies are protecting.

Fawn response: He may lie to avoid conflict or your disappointment; check whether lies smooth over tension.

Impression management: Fits if the lies make him look better, busier or more successful than he is.

Childhood emotional neglect: Some learned to lie to avoid punishment as children; check how honesty was treated in his family.

Machiavellianism: Fits only if lies serve clear goals and he manipulates in other ways too.

In the last small lie, what was he protecting, as far as I can tell?
Each time I catch a small lie, what happens to how much I believe the bigger things?