Friendships are essential for our well-being, but sometimes people in our lives may not have genuine intentions. According to a psychologist, there are clear signs that someone is pretending to be your friend rather than truly caring about you. Recognizing these red flags can help protect your emotional health and build more authentic connections.
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Excessive Flattery: While compliments are nice, constant and insincere flattery can indicate manipulation rather than genuine appreciation.
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Frequent Competition: If a friend consistently turns conversations into contests or tries to outshine you, it may signal jealousy instead of support.
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Lack of Support: True friends stand by you during tough times. Those who disappear or show indifference when you need help might not be authentic.
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Self-Centered Behavior: When interactions mostly revolve around their needs and stories, it’s a warning the friendship is one-sided.
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Inconsistent Communication: Fake friends often reach out only when they want something or disappear without explanation.
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Gossip and Betrayal: Sharing your secrets or speaking negatively about you behind your back clearly indicates a lack of trustworthiness.
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Conditional Friendship: Real friends accept you as you are. If the relationship depends on you meeting certain conditions or changing yourself, it’s likely insincere.
Being able to spot these signs early empowers you to prioritize genuine friendships that offer mutual respect and support.