People who are disruptive and rude in public often lack these 9 qualities, according to psychologists

When you encounter someone making a scene in public or being unnecessarily loud, you might simply label them as rude.

But there’s often more to it than meets the eye.

According to psychologists, individuals who frequently disrupt and disrespect public spaces typically lack certain key qualities.

For example, they struggle to respect boundaries, have little regard for social norms, and often lack empathy towards others.

And that’s just scratching the surface.

Signs of a disruptive and rude person

There are several characteristics that are often missing in individuals who consistently disrupt and behave rudely in public.

Here are some key traits these individuals usually lack:

  • No respect for social norms and boundaries
  • Doesn’t understand or consider the impact of their actions on others
  • Unable to empathize with others’ feelings or perspectives
  • Unwilling to adjust behavior in response to social cues
  • Unable to manage impulses effectively
  • Impatient and intolerant to minor inconveniences
  • Has no concept of personal space or privacy
  • Refuses to compromise and cooperate with others
  • No basic manners
  • No concept of politeness

While disruptive and rude behavior isn’t necessarily a mental health disorder, it can be symptomatic of deeper issues.

Understanding the signs can provide insight into why such individuals act the way they do in public.

Here are some indicators to be aware of and suggestions on how to handle these situations:

1) Lack of empathy

A prominent characteristic of individuals who are disruptive and rude in public is their apparent lack of empathy.

They seem to struggle with understanding or sharing the feelings of others, which can lead to disrespectful and inconsiderate behavior.

They often fail to comprehend how their actions might negatively affect those around them, which contributes to their disruptive conduct in public spaces.

2) Poor impulse control

People who often disrupt public spaces tend to have poor impulse control.

This means they act on their immediate desires and feelings without thinking about the consequences or considering the impact on others.

They may speak loudly, invade personal spaces, or behave inappropriately without considering how their actions might affect those around them.

3) Disregard for social norms

Another characteristic of disruptive individuals is their blatant disregard for social norms.

They often flout established rules of etiquette and conduct, behaving in ways that are generally considered inappropriate or unacceptable in public settings.

This disregard extends to the feelings and comfort of others, resulting in rude and disruptive behavior.

4) Low self-awareness

Individuals who are disruptive and rude often lack self-awareness.

They may not fully grasp how their actions are perceived by others, which can lead to them behaving inappropriately in public, as they do not realize that their behavior is disruptive or disrespectful.

5) Inability to handle criticism

People who are often disruptive and rude in public spaces usually have a tough time handling criticism.

They tend to react negatively when their behavior is questioned or confronted, often escalating the situation rather than considering the validity of the critique.

This defensive response can further fuel their disruptive behavior, making it difficult for them to change or improve.

6) Struggle with emotional regulation

Those who exhibit disruptive and rude behavior may be struggling with emotional regulation. This doesn’t excuse their behavior, but it helps to understand that they might find it challenging to manage their emotions effectively, leading them to react in inconsiderate ways.

They may need support and guidance to learn healthier ways of expressing their feelings without causing disruption or discomfort to others.

7) Difficulty accepting responsibility

Many of us, at times, find it hard to admit when we’re wrong. But for individuals who are frequently disruptive and rude, this difficulty is often amplified.

They tend to deflect blame or make excuses for their behavior instead of acknowledging their actions’ impact on others, which can make it challenging for them to learn from their mistakes and modify their behavior.

8) The ‘center-of-the-universe’ syndrome

Sometimes, those with disruptive and rude behavior might suffer from what we like to call the ‘center-of-the-universe’ syndrome.

They seem to believe that everything revolves around them, leading them to disregard others’ feelings or needs.

While it can be frustrating to deal with, you’ve got to admit that it does make for some interesting people-watching experiences.

9) Stubbornness to change

The truth is, people who frequently exhibit disruptive and rude behavior often resist change.

Despite feedback or consequences, they stubbornly stick to their ways, refusing to acknowledge the need for improvement.

It’s a tough pill to swallow, but it’s crucial to understand that you can’t force someone to change; they have to recognize it and want it for themselves.

In such cases, protecting your peace and maintaining your boundaries become paramount.

Your peace matters

Above all else, remember this: Your peace and comfort matter.

Encountering individuals with disruptive and rude behavior can be challenging. But it’s crucial to prioritize your well-being.

Stand up for yourself when needed, set clear boundaries, and don’t hesitate to remove yourself from uncomfortable situations.

You deserve respect, and it’s perfectly okay to demand it.

Reflecting on disruptive and rude behavior

Understanding the root cause of the behavior doesn’t mean we should excuse it. It means we handle it with more insight.

This insight can help you navigate these encounters without compromising your peace or self-respect.

Remember, their lack of empathy or disregard for social norms isn’t your fault or responsibility to fix.

It’s also crucial to note that this article isn’t a diagnostic tool. It’s meant to provide insights into the characteristics often lacking in people who exhibit disruptive and rude behavior in public.

Encountering a few or even all of these behaviors doesn’t automatically label someone as a ‘bad person’.

But it does call for reflection: is this behavior affecting your well-being? How can you respond effectively?

It’s a valuable opportunity for learning, growth, and setting boundaries. After all, understanding is the first step towards change—for them and us.

Remember: Your peace matters. You have every right to feel comfortable in public spaces, so don’t hesitate to take necessary actions to ensure your well-being.

Lucas Graham

Lucas Graham, based in Auckland, writes about the psychology behind everyday decisions and life choices. His perspective is grounded in the belief that understanding oneself is the key to better decision-making. Lucas’s articles are a mix of personal anecdotes and observations, offering readers relatable and down-to-earth advice.

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