We’ve all been there – questioning whether a friend or partner is being genuine with us.

Spotting a fake person isn’t always easy. They can be quite skilled at concealing their true intentions, leaving you feeling suspicious and confused.

But fear not. There are clear signs that can help you determine if your friend or partner is indeed fake.

In this article, I’ll walk you through 8 tell-tale signs to confirm your suspicions. So buckle up, it’s time to find out the truth.

1) Inconsistency in behaviour

One clear sign of a fake friend or partner is inconsistency.

Real people, genuine people, are consistent in their behaviours. They don’t flip flop from one moment to the next, acting sweet one day and then cold the next.

Fake people, on the other hand, can change like the wind. Their attitude towards you may shift based on their mood, their needs or the people they are with.

It’s like they’re wearing a mask that frequently changes depending on their situation.

If you notice this kind of inconsistent behaviour in your friend or partner, don’t ignore it. It may be a sign that they’re not as genuine as they appear.

2) They’re never at fault

Have you ever been in a situation where your friend or partner never takes responsibility for their actions? I know I have.

There was a time when I had a friend who would always put the blame on others whenever things went wrong. It was never her fault, according to her. She’d find any excuse to shift the blame and avoid taking responsibility.

This is a classic trait of a fake person. Genuine people own up to their mistakes and learn from them. They don’t shirk responsibility or point fingers at others.

If your friend or partner always finds a way to dodge accountability, it’s a red flag that they might not be as real as they seem.

3) They break promises often

Promises are meant to be kept, not broken. It’s a simple concept, but some people seem to struggle with it.

Fake friends or partners have a tendency to make grand promises, only to break them later. This could be anything from cancelling plans at the last minute, to not following through on significant commitments.

Interestingly, a study published in the Journal of Social and Personal Relationships found that people who frequently break promises are often viewed as untrustworthy and unreliable.

So if your friend or partner has a habit of breaking promises, it might be time to question the authenticity of their intentions.

4) They’re overly critical

Constructive criticism from a friend or partner can be valuable. It shows they care about your growth and well-being. But when the criticism is constant and harsh, it’s a different story.

Fake people often find faults in others to make themselves feel superior. They focus on your weaknesses and overlook your strengths. This negativity can be emotionally draining and damaging to your self-esteem.

So if you find your friend or partner is always putting you down instead of lifting you up, it’s a significant sign they might not be as genuine as you once thought.

5) They lack empathy

One of the most beautiful aspects of a genuine relationship is empathy – the ability to understand and share the feelings of another.

But in my experience, fake friends or partners often lack this crucial trait. They struggle to show genuine concern for your feelings or situations. You might pour your heart out, only to be met with indifference or, worse, complete disregard.

A relationship without empathy feels hollow and one-sided. It can leave you feeling unheard and unimportant.

If your friend or partner often dismisses your feelings or struggles to show empathy, it’s a clear sign they might not be the genuine person you thought they were.

6) They gossip a lot

I remember having a friend who used to gossip a lot. Every time we’d hang out, she’d have some juicy tidbit about someone else’s life. At first, it seemed like harmless chatter, but then I started to wonder – if she’s talking about others behind their backs, what’s she saying about me when I’m not around?

Gossiping is a common trait among fake people. They thrive on drama and stirring the pot. Instead of focusing on building genuine relationships, they’re more interested in tearing others down.

So if your friend or partner is always eager to share the latest gossip, it might be a sign that they’re not as real as you think.

7) They’re only around in good times

True friends and partners stick by your side through thick and thin. They’re there to celebrate your victories and lift you up during your lowest moments.

But fake people? They’re often fair-weather friends. They’re all smiles and support when things are going well, but the moment you hit a rough patch, they’re nowhere to be found.

If your friend or partner seems to disappear during tough times, it’s a clear sign they might not be as genuine as you thought. Genuine relationships involve being there for each other, even when it’s not convenient or fun.

8) They’re manipulative

Manipulation is the hallmark of a fake person. They know how to twist situations, play with your emotions, and make you feel guilty for things you shouldn’t.

They use manipulation as a tool to control you and get what they want. It’s a dangerous game that can leave you feeling confused, hurt, and manipulated.

If your friend or partner often uses guilt trips, plays the victim, or twists your words, know this – it’s not okay. It’s a sign of manipulation and a significant indicator that they’re not genuine.

At the heart: It’s about respect

The essence of authentic relationships, whether they are friendships or romantic partnerships, lies in mutual respect.

Respect, in this case, involves acknowledging each other’s feelings, valuing their opinions, and being considerate of their needs. It means treating the other person with kindness and empathy, even when you disagree.

The absence of such respect is often a telltale sign of a fake friend or partner.

It’s important to remember that you deserve respect in all your relationships. You have the right to be treated with kindness and consideration.

If you find yourself constantly questioning the authenticity of a friend or partner, don’t ignore these feelings. Reflect on these signs we’ve discussed and trust your instincts.

After all, genuine relationships enrich our lives, providing support, joy, and companionship. Don’t settle for anything less.