4 steps to rebuild your parents' trust after they catch you in a lie

So you lied to your parents but it was unintentional.

It just happened!

They'll believe you, right? Right?

There are many reasons why you might lie to your parents:

• to get out of trouble

• to get out of a situation you think your parents will overreact to

• to maintain privacy

• to avoid disappointing your parents

Being caught lying is not a pleasant experience.

You felt comfortable doing it in the moment, but now, the guilt is killing you and you want to undo the lie.

Sally was supposed to turn in her term paper but she got caught up using social media and missed the deadline. When her mom asked her if she had submitted it, she said yes! Now, she's in trouble. She hasn't turned in her paper, which will cost her grade, and she also lied to her mom.

It won't be easy to restore your parents' trust but it's doable.

1) Own it!

The first step won't be easy but it will put you on a path to recover trust.

If you own it, it will end the cycle of lies after lies after lies...

2) Apologize

A heartfelt and sincere apology will set things in the right direction. The following statements are simple ways to apologize:

• I'm sorry I hurt you by... I was wrong.

• I should have…/I shouldn’t have…

• I'm sorry for hurting your feelings.

• I regret the way I acted.

• I'm ashamed that I lied.

• I'm sorry, I made a mistake.

3) Explain Without Excuses

Excuses won't get you anywhere. But an explanation will help build better communication. Explaining your feelings and situation will help your parents understand your standpoint.

4) Damage Control

The damage is done, so you'll have to bear the burden for the time being until you win back their trust. Promise to be honest with them from now on and follow through on it!

Lying to your parents might damage your relationship with them. Once you break their trust, it'll be very difficult to earn it back.

Next time you feel the urge to lie, ask yourself: