Two cases of pseudologia phantastica: consideration from the viewpoint of forensic psychiatry

Two male cases of pseudologia phantastica are reported. The first case regards unprecedented, indiscriminate murders by the use of the poison gas, sarin, and other unreasonable, almost unthinkable crimes allegedly committed by the religious cult Aum Shinrikyo, currently being examined in a criminal trial. On the basis of scrutiny of the publications of the founder of Aum Shinrikyo and his followers, as well as the founder's comments and his attitude in the courts, the author concludes that the founder of Aum is a typical pseudologia phantastica. Case 2 concerns the self-styled Professor Tsuchiya who was apparently a swindler. At least three significant deceptions have been confirmed. The forensic implications of pseudologia phantastica are discussed, as is the necessity of psychiatric evidence to assist with smooth trial proceedings. The author stresses the importance of psychiatry in preventing crimes committed by persons with pseudologia phantastica.