When looking for credibility in a statement there are keywords that serve as red flags in deception.
Started Means Never Completed
The word “started” is one such red flag deceptive word.
When someone says something was “started”, it means the act was interrupted or never completed.
For example, instead of saying, “He started encroaching on my space. He started putting his hand up my skirt. I started telling my story about a year and a half ago. I started telling my friends.” a truthful statement would be,
“He encroached on my space. He put his hand up my skirt. I told my story about a year and a half ago. I told my friends.”
The word “started” means the act was interrupted. If the act was interrupted or never completed, listen for the rest of the statement that tells why it was interrupted.
In the case of a reported assault, if someone is saying another started to do something, it’s reasonable to then hear the alleged victim say something like “I told him to stop.” Or “I pushed him off.” or “I was so scared all I could do was…”
If there is nothing describing the interruption it’s likely an untruthful statement. You cannot believe she did these things because she has not told us that she did them. There is a good chance she is making up the story.
You vs. I.
Using the word “you” instead of “I” is another red flag deceptive word.
For example, instead of saying, “These are not memories that you want to go over. You suppress it. It’s not part of your active thinking. You don’t forget.” a truthful statement would be,
“These are not memories that I want to go over. I suppress it. It’s not part of my active thinking. I don’t forget.”
You cannot believe she is talking about her own memories because she has not told us that she experienced it. There is a good chance she is making up the story.
There are a number of other deceptive words. For now, if you hear someone relaying a story about what happened and they use “started” or “you” instead of “I”. Pay attention. They may be telling you their story is untrue.
If you liked this post please Like, Share, and Post a Comment. As Managing Director of Concealed Statements, I specialize in exposing lies through verbal and written statements; and for a little levity to balance I am also a stand-up comedian and wedding officiant – Lies, Laughs, and Love!
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