Do Circles Reveal Narcissism? The Truth Behind the Viral Meme

A viral meme claims that the number of circles you see in an optical illusion reveals if you’re a narcissist. Though fun and highly shareable, this idea has no scientific backing. Narcissism is a complex personality trait, clinically defined by persistent patterns like entitlement, lack of empathy, and grandiosity—none of which can be measured by a single image.

Optical illusions, while fascinating, merely showcase how our brains interpret visual data and can vary based on focus, mood, or perception—not personality. While some projective tests like the Rorschach Inkblot have been used in psychology, they require trained professionals and structured methods.

Ultimately, the meme is more pop psychology than fact. It taps into our curiosity about self-discovery and quick answers but oversimplifies a nuanced psychological condition. Enjoy the illusion, but take its claims with a grain of salt—it’s entertainment, not diagnosis.