As a person, it’s crucial to feel valued, respected, and seen as an equal by those around us.

However, there are instances where this is not the case—you might find yourself in a situation where someone perceives you as morally beneath them.

According to psychology, these subtle signs can manifest in everyday behaviors and body language.

From condescending comments to dismissive attitudes, it’s a psychologically-damaging behaviour that can leave you feeling inferior and worthless.

Here are 9 indicators that someone might think you’re morally beneath them—and how recognizing these signs can help you navigate such relationships more effectively:

1) They constantly belittle your achievements

It’s one thing to be humble, but it’s another to have your accomplishments consistently downplayed or dismissed by someone else.

You might notice that each time you share a personal achievement or success, they tend to brush it off or even worse, make it seem insignificant compared to what they or someone else has achieved.

This behavior can be quite subtle, often manifesting as backhanded compliments or sarcastic comments.

It might come across as a joke at first, but over time it becomes clear that their intention is not to uplift you, but rather to undermine your self-worth.

2) They never accept blame

Accepting responsibility for our actions is a basic principle of moral conduct and integrity.

However, the person in question always manages to shift the blame onto others, including you.

Whether it’s a minor mistake or a significant issue, they seem to have an uncanny ability to twist the narrative so that they’re never at fault.

They might even display a knack for playing the victim, painting themselves as the one wronged despite clear evidence to the contrary.

This is an example of a defense mechanism known as ‘projection’; they’re essentially projecting their own faults and wrongdoings onto you.

It’s a way for them to protect their ego and uphold their perceived moral superiority.

3) They shower you with compliments

Compliments are usually a good thing, right? Well, not always. 

While it’s nice to be praised, an overabundance of compliments can sometimes be a way for someone to keep you in a submissive position.

The praise might focus on attributes that position them as superior or more morally upright.

For example, they might frequently compliment your innocence, naivety, or how you always need their guidance.

On the surface, these seem like compliments, but subtly, they’re reinforcing the idea that you are morally beneath them—less worldly and experienced, therefore in need of their ‘superior’ guidance.

4) They dismiss your feelings

One of the most heart-wrenching signs is when someone trivializes your feelings.

You express your emotions, your hurts, or your joys, and they’re met with indifference, dismissal, or even ridicule.

You may have been told before that you’re being “too sensitive” or that your reaction is “over the top”—they might have also laughed off your concerns or told you that what you’re feeling is wrong or unimportant.

This behavior is not only disrespectful but it’s also incredibly invalidating.

It’s a subtle way of asserting dominance and control, suggesting they know better than you about how you should feel or react.

5) They show a lack of interest in your passions

We all have hobbies, interests, and passions that make us who we are—they make our lives richer and more enjoyable.

But what if the person you’re with shows no interest in your passions?

These ‘superior’ people may not outwardly dismiss them, but they never take the time to understand or engage in them by asking questions, showing enthusiasm, and making an effort to share these experiences with you.

You won’t think that this is a big deal at first, but you should know now that this as a subtle way of saying what’s important to you is not important to them.

6) They’re always right

We all know that person who never admits they’re wrong, don’t we?

They’re the ones who always have to have the last word in an argument, or who dismiss any opinion that doesn’t match their own.

Every discussion turns into a debate that they must win; they don’t see conversations as an exchange of ideas, but as a competition where they must come out on top.

It’s a relatable experience, and one you shouldn’t ignore—everyone has a right to their opinion and everyone deserves to be heard.

7) They focus on your mistakes

Everyone makes mistakes—it’s what makes us human!

Usually, these are moments for us to laugh at ourselves, learn, and grow.

But, have you ever noticed that certain person who seems to remember every little error you’ve ever made?

Superior-minded people would be the type to bring up that time you burnt the toast, or when you got lost on a road trip, even years after they happened—it’s as if they have a mental catalogue of your slips and blunders.

By highlighting your faults, they’re implying they don’t make such errors themselves.

Remember, it’s okay to mess up and laugh about it as no one is perfect, and your worth is not defined by your mistakes.

8) They don’t respect your boundaries

Boundaries are a crucial part of any healthy relationship; boundaries help maintain respect and understanding between people.

However, if someone consistently ignores or disrespects your boundaries, it’s a clear sign they think they’re above you.

This disrespect frequently manifests itself as constantly showing up uninvited, disregarding your requests for space, or making decisions that affect you without your input.

This is tough love, but you need to hear it: Don’t tolerate this behavior.

9) They rarely apologize

Apologizing when we’re wrong is a basic aspect of human decency.

It shows that we value the feelings and perspectives of others—unfortunately, this is the opposite for the superior-minded people in your life.

By justifying their actions, shifting the blame, or simply ignoring the issue altogether, this behavior signifies a lack of empathy and an inflated sense of self-worth.

Take it from me—you deserve respect, empathy, and honesty in all your relationships.

Final thoughts

We are all equals in the grand scheme of things, deserving of respect and empathy.

Wayne Dyer, an American author and motivational speaker, once said, “Self-worth comes from one thing – thinking that you are worthy.”

It’s a reminder that your worth is not determined by how others perceive you—surround yourself with people who uplift, respect, and value you.

If someone consistently shows signs of treating you as inferior, it may be time to reassess that relationship.

Seeing one or a few of these signs doesn’t automatically mean someone views you as lesser, but it’s a reason to reflect on whether you feel valued and respected.

Remember: You are enough just as you are, so don’t let anyone make you believe otherwise.