As someone who’s interacted with many bad people, I’ve learned that their actions can leave you feeling confused and drained.

They often exhibit behaviors that are manipulative, self-centered, or unkind.

They may even charm you one moment, then disregard your feelings the next.

Being like this might not be a clinical diagnosis, but they have patterns of behavior that show that they’re not a good person.

But every one of us is unique, so determining if someone isn’t a good person is complex and can be challenging.

Fortunately, psychologists have identified some common signs that someone isn’t a good person.

Knowing these could help us understand—and perhaps avoid—these kinds of people.

1) They consistently disregard the feelings of others

We all have our off days, but if someone consistently neglects other people’s feelings, it’s a red flag.

This person may come across as charming and friendly at first, but soon you’ll notice a pattern where your feelings are disregarded.

For instance, they might make decisions that affect you without consulting you or dismiss your emotions when you’re upset.

This kind of behavior isn’t just rude; it’s indicative of a lack of empathy, a common trait among those who aren’t good people.

They may make you feel as if you’re being too sensitive or demanding when in fact, your feelings are completely valid.

You might find yourself constantly trying to justify their actions or doubting your own emotions.

If this is the case, it could be a sign that you’re dealing with someone who isn’t a good person.

By recognizing this behavior, you can take steps to protect yourself and seek healthier relationships.

2) They’re always playing the victim

At first glance, you might feel sympathy towards someone who seems to have the world against them. After all, it’s human nature to empathize with those who appear to be suffering.

But with some people, playing the victim is less about genuine hardship and more about manipulation.

These people tend to blame others for their problems and rarely take responsibility for their actions.

They’ll weave intricate tales of misfortune and injustice, but upon closer inspection, you may realize that they’re often the common denominator in their stories.

This constant victim mentality can be a cunning way to gain sympathy, avoid accountability, and justify their own wrongdoings.

It can be challenging to know they’re bad people at first, because they skillfully use our natural instinct for compassion against us.

Recognizing this pattern can help you understand that their issues may not be as one-sided as they present them to be.

3) They rarely show gratitude

Gratitude is more than just good manners; it’s a reflection of a person’s ability to acknowledge the positive aspects of their life and the efforts others make on their behalf.

Someone who rarely expresses gratitude may seem unimportant, but it’s a significant sign that they might not be a good person.

They often believe they are entitled to the kindness and efforts of others without needing to express thanks.

This lack of gratitude can lead to feelings of being unappreciated and undervalued in those around them. It can create an environment where others feel taken for granted, which is a clear sign of disrespect.

Interestingly, gratitude is linked to increased happiness and better relationships.

So, not only is the absence of gratitude a sign of a not-so-good person, but it also deprives them of the benefits that come with acknowledging and appreciating others.

4) They often break promises

We all forget things sometimes, and occasional broken promises can be a part of life’s imperfections.

But when someone consistently fails to keep their word, it can be deeply hurtful.

Someone who often breaks promises may not necessarily do it out of malice. They might struggle with time management, or perhaps they say ‘yes’ too often without considering if they can follow through.

However, regardless of the reasons, the impact on those around them can be significant. It can leave you feeling disappointed, undervalued, and unsure of where you stand with them.

Everyone deserves respect and reliability in their relationships. And if these broken promises become a pattern, it could be a sign that the person isn’t as good-hearted as they may seem.

5) They’re overly critical of others

There’s always someone in our lives who seems to have an endless supply of criticism. Whether it’s your choice of outfit, the way you speak, or your favorite TV show, nothing seems to escape their judgment.

This person may argue that they’re just being ‘honest’ or ‘helpful’, but there’s a difference between constructive feedback and unnecessary negativity.

If their comments leave you feeling deflated and self-conscious more often than not, it might be more than just their personal opinion at play.

A constant stream of criticism can be a sign that they have a need to feel superior or in control. It’s a way for them to assert dominance and belittle others under the guise of ‘just saying it like it is’.

If someone continually makes you feel like this, it could be a sign that you’re dealing with someone who isn’t a good person.

6) They frequently gossip

I remember a former colleague who seemed to thrive on office gossip. From personal relationships to professional missteps, nothing was off-limits.

This person might make it seem like harmless chatter, even entertaining at times.

But if someone is consistently speaking negatively about others, especially when they’re not around to defend themselves, it can be a sign of deeper issues.

Gossiping shows a lack of respect for others’ privacy and can create an environment of mistrust and negativity.

It’s also worth considering that if they’re willing to gossip about others, they’re likely willing to gossip about you too.

Being aware of this behavior can help you steer clear of the drama and maintain a more positive and respectful environment.

7) They don’t own up to their mistakes

Nobody’s perfect, and we all make mistakes.

But owning up to our errors and making amends is a crucial part of personal growth and maintaining healthy relationships.

If someone habitually refuses to apologize for their wrongdoings, it’s a glaring sign that they might not be a good person.

This stubbornness to say ‘I’m sorry’ often stems from a deep-seated fear of appearing weak or flawed.

But here’s the truth: Owning your mistakes doesn’t make you weak; it makes you human.

It shows maturity, empathy, and respect for the people you’ve wronged.

So if you’re dealing with someone who would rather lose a relationship than admit they were wrong, it’s time to reevaluate whether this person deserves a place in your life.

Trust your gut

At the end of the day, you know yourself best. If something feels off about someone, even if you can’t put your finger on it, trust your instincts.

Our gut feelings are often an accumulation of subtle signs and signals that our conscious mind might overlook.

If you consistently feel uncomfortable or drained around someone, it’s worth taking these feelings seriously.

Remember, everyone deserves to be surrounded by people who respect and appreciate them.

Don’t ignore your instincts in favor of giving someone the benefit of the doubt.

Trusting your gut could save you from a lot of heartache in the long run.