Ever noticed how some people can’t stop talking about themselves and hardly show any interest in others? Well, psychology suggests there might be more going on under the surface.

These individuals typically display certain traits that reflect their self-focused nature. And while it may be frustrating to interact with them, understanding these characteristics can offer insight into their behavior.

In this article, we’ll reveal the 7 traits people who love to talk about themselves and don’t show interest in others usually have, according to psychology. Let’s dive in and unravel the mystery behind these self-absorbed individuals.

1) Self-centeredness

Ever been in a conversation where the other person can’t stop talking about their life, achievements or experiences, and barely acknowledges your input? This is a classic sign of self-centeredness.

Self-centered individuals often monopolize conversations because they see their experiences or opinions as superior or more interesting. They tend to dominate conversations, rarely asking questions and displaying little interest in what others have to say.

Psychology suggests this behavior stems from an inflated sense of self-importance. These individuals feel that their stories, opinions, and ideas are more worthwhile than others’.

But remember, understanding this trait doesn’t mean you have to endure being overshadowed in a conversation. It’s important to engage in balanced, reciprocal interactions where both parties are equally interested in each other’s thoughts and feelings.

2) Lack of empathy

I remember a time when I shared a personal struggle with a friend who loved to talk about herself. Instead of providing comfort or understanding, she quickly diverted the conversation back to her own experiences, completely overlooking my feelings.

This lack of empathy is a common trait among people who love to talk about themselves and show little interest in others. They struggle to put themselves in someone else’s shoes or appreciate their feelings and experiences.

Psychology suggests that this lack of empathy might stem from a preoccupation with their own lives, leaving little room for consideration of others. It’s important to remember that everyone deserves to be heard and understood, especially when they’re going through tough times.

3) Attention-seeking behavior

People who constantly talk about themselves often exhibit attention-seeking behavior. They may frequently brag about their achievements or dramatize their experiences to gain more attention and admiration from others.

According to research, attention-seeking behavior can sometimes be linked to certain personality disorders, such as histrionic personality disorder. These individuals have a strong desire to be the center of attention and may go to great lengths to ensure they remain in the spotlight.

This trait isn’t just about hogging the limelight, though. It can also manifest in constantly seeking validation and reassurance from others. So, it’s not just about them wanting to share their stories, but also about their need for your attention and approval.

4) Poor listening skills

Listening is an art, and unfortunately, not everyone masters it. People who love to talk about themselves often have poor listening skills. They may interrupt others, not respond appropriately to comments, or simply zone out when someone else is speaking.

Psychology tells us that effective listening requires more than just hearing the words someone is saying. It involves understanding the message being conveyed and responding thoughtfully. However, for individuals who are self-focused, they may view conversations merely as platforms for expressing their own thoughts and opinions.

This trait can cause frustration for others who feel unheard or undervalued. It’s crucial to remember that good communication involves a balance of both speaking and listening.

5) Difficulty in maintaining relationships

Over the years, I’ve noticed that some of the people in my life who consistently talk about themselves and lack interest in others have a hard time maintaining long-term relationships. Friendships seem to fizzle out, romantic relationships come to abrupt ends, and even professional connections tend to be short-lived.

Psychology suggests that this may be because successful relationships require mutual respect, understanding, and interest. When one party is too focused on their own experiences and shows little consideration for the other person’s feelings or perspectives, it can lead to dissatisfaction and ultimately, a breakdown of the relationship.

This isn’t to say that they are incapable of forming meaningful connections. But it does mean they might need to make more effort to show genuine interest and empathy towards others.

6) Dominant behavior

Ever noticed how some self-focused individuals tend to take control of conversations, decisions, and even social situations? This dominant behavior is another common trait they display.

Psychology views this dominance as a form of control or asserting superiority. They may interrupt others, steer conversations back to themselves, or make decisions without consulting others.

While it’s natural for some people to take the lead in certain situations, it becomes problematic when it’s a consistent pattern that disregards the contributions and opinions of others. It’s important to remember that everyone’s input is valuable and that healthy interactions involve a fair share of give and take.

7) Low self-esteem

Counterintuitive as it may seem, people who incessantly talk about themselves and show little interest in others often struggle with low self-esteem. Their constant self-focus can be a defense mechanism to counter feelings of inadequacy or insecurity.

Psychology suggests that these individuals might overcompensate for their perceived shortcomings by highlighting their achievements or exaggerating their experiences. But beneath this façade, they might be grappling with self-doubt and a lack of self-worth. It’s crucial to approach these individuals with empathy, keeping in mind that their behavior is often a reflection of their internal struggles.