I realize I'm new to this group and no one knows me but this whole thread kind of gives me the willies. I have a brother who seems to have similar issues and I have come to the (gulp) conclusion that he is a pathological liar. He seems to be telling the truth and my mother believes 98% of what he says. He was semi-financially successful in the past, but he needs more money now (he married a younger woman with two pre-teen boys) and he's begun to take some of my mother's belongings. So far its things like lamps, pictures (the family heirloom type) and paintings. My mother has a Botero that is worth quite a bit and I'm afraid I'll show up one day and my mother will say something like "Joe" borrowed it and we will never see the painting again. I have learned to steer clear of him and so does most of the family. My mother, at 88, adores both of my brothers and can see no wrong in anything they do. "Joe" can be very convincing but I have caught him in many lies. His trick is to whip out his cell phone (which never rings), hold up one finger as if to say hold on and walk away. Shortly afterwards he usually makes a hasty exit. There are times when I can honestly say I think he's gotten to the point where he believes his own lies. It's sad to have to deal with this type of family member - but my advice is to keep as much distance between you and DS as possible. Unless and until he seems to come 'back' to his former self. Good luck.