8 signs someone is a low-quality person, according to psychology

There’s a clear distinction between high-quality and low-quality people. It’s not about wealth or status; it’s about character and actions.

Psychology has given us insights into the signs that might indicate someone is a low-quality person. These signs can save you time, energy, and heartache if you can recognize them early on.

This isn’t about judging others harshly; it’s about understanding the traits that can lead to unhealthy relationships and negative environments.

In this article, we will delve into 8 signs that someone is a low-quality person, according to psychology. This information could be crucial in navigating your social circles and building better relationships.

Let’s dive in.

1) They lack empathy

When it comes to identifying a low-quality person, the absence of empathy tops the list.

Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of others. It’s the glue that holds relationships together and allows us to connect on a deeper level.

A low-quality person, however, seems to lack this crucial trait. They often fail to consider others’ feelings or perspectives and may even dismiss them entirely.

This disregard for others is a red flag, signaling a lack of emotional intelligence and a potential for toxic behavior.

Famous psychologist Carl Rogers once said, “When someone really hears you without passing judgment on you, without trying to take responsibility for you, without trying to mold you, it feels damn good!”.

This quote perfectly encapsulates the essence of empathy, something that’s often missing in low-quality individuals.

2) They’re always playing the victim

Another clear sign of a low-quality person is their perpetual victimhood. We all know someone who never seems to take responsibility for their own actions and is always blaming others for their misfortunes.

I remember an old colleague of mine who would always find a way to blame others when things went wrong. If he missed a deadline, it was because someone else didn’t provide him with information on time. If he made a mistake, it was because someone had given him incorrect instructions. It was exhausting and frustrating to work with him.

Psychologist Albert Ellis, the founder of Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), once said, “The best years of your life are the ones in which you decide your problems are your own. You do not blame them on your mother, the ecology, or the president. You realize that you control your own destiny.”

Recognizing this trait in someone can help you determine whether they’re a low-quality person, and more importantly, whether you should keep them in your sphere or distance yourself for your own sanity.

3) They’re chronically negative

A constant presence of negativity is another sign of a low-quality person. These are the people who always see the glass as half empty, who find fault in everything and everyone, and who can drain the energy out of a room simply by stepping into it.

Their negativity can be infectious, spreading discontent and unhappiness to those around them. It’s not only draining but also detrimental to your own mental health.

Carl Jung, one of the most influential psychologists, once said, “You are what you do, not what you say you’ll do.”

This statement rings true for these individuals. Their actions, constantly steeped in negativity, reveal their true character more than any words could.

Being aware of this sign can protect you from their harmful influence and help you seek out more positive, uplifting company.

4) They lack integrity

Integrity is a core trait of high-quality individuals. Those lacking it, however, often show signs of being low-quality.

I’ve encountered people in my life who would say one thing and do another, or make promises they had no intention of keeping. Their actions consistently failed to align with their words, making it hard to trust them.

Renowned author Steven Covey said it best:

“Moral authority comes from following universal and timeless principles like honesty, integrity, treating people with respect.”

However, individuals of low character often resort to dishonesty and rarely treat others with respect.

Spotting this sign early on can save you from disappointment and potential harm down the line. It’s essential to surround yourself with people who value honesty and follow through on their promises.

5) They’re overly charming

Now, this might seem counterintuitive. How can being charming be a sign of a low-quality person? The key lies in the ‘overly.’

Some individuals use charm as a manipulative tool, often to get what they want or to hide their true nature. This kind of charm is superficial and fleeting, and it’s often used to mask deeper issues.

Psychologist Robert Hare, known for his work on psychopathy, said, “Psychopaths are social predators who charm, manipulate, and ruthlessly plow their way through life, leaving a broad trail of broken hearts, shattered expectations, and empty wallets.”

The key is to distinguish between genuine charm and the manipulative kind. Trust your instincts and observe their behavior over time. Authenticity shines through in the long run.

6) They have a superiority complex

We’ve all met someone who believes they’re superior to others. They’re quick to belittle others’ accomplishments and always find a way to make everything about themselves.

I recall a former classmate who would always compare his grades with others, not to motivate himself, but to make others feel inferior. His constant need for validation and superiority was draining and off-putting.

Psychologist Alfred Adler, known for his work on inferiority and superiority complexes, once said, “The greater the feeling of inferiority that has been experienced, the more powerful is the urge to conquest and the more violent the emotional agitation.”

This statement suggests that a superiority complex might be a cover-up for deep-seated feelings of inferiority.

Identifying this behavior in someone can help you take their words and actions with a grain of salt, protecting your own self-esteem in the process.

7) They’re unapologetic

We’re all human, and we all make mistakes. But a sign of a low-quality person is someone who never admits their mistakes or says they’re sorry.

These individuals will often deflect blame, find excuses, or even twist the narrative to avoid taking responsibility. This lack of remorse and accountability can be damaging to relationships and breeds mistrust.

As psychologist Nathaniel Branden said, “The first step toward change is awareness. The second step is acceptance.”

Without acknowledging and apologizing for their mistakes, these individuals are unlikely to change or grow.

8) They’re overly competitive

Competition isn’t inherently bad. In fact, it can often drive us to achieve more. However, when taken to the extreme, it can be a sign of a low-quality person.

These individuals view everything as a competition and are constantly trying to outdo others, even in trivial matters. Their need to always be “the best” can lead to unhealthy behaviors and strained relationships.

Psychologist Leon Festinger’s theory of social comparison suggests that people have an inherent drive to assess their abilities and opinions by comparing themselves to others. But when this is taken to an extreme, it can lead to dissatisfaction and a constant need for validation.

By recognizing this trait, you can manage your interactions with such individuals and protect your own sense of self-worth.