“Fake friends are like paper cuts, both are annoyingly painful and make you wish you were more careful.”
~ Unknown
1. They Only Come Around for the Good Times
Fake friends show up for the fun and celebrations but vanish when you need support or help.
2. They Lack Empathy
Genuine friends share in your joy and pain, but a fake friend might seem indifferent to your struggles.
“Don’t fear the enemies who attack you, fear the fake friends that hug you.” ~ Unknown
3. They Offer Help but Never Follow Through
Fake friends sometimes promise to help you but rarely follow through. They won’t support you when it matters.
4. They Criticize Behind Your Back
While fake friends act friendly to your face, they often talk badly about you behind your back.
5. They Aren’t Happy for Your Successes
Instead of celebrating your achievements, fake friends may feel jealous or resentful struggling to be genuinely happy for you.
6. They Are Absent in Times of Need
True friends show up for you even when it’s inconvenient for them. Fake friends, however, only stick around during the good times and disappear when you face difficulties.
“A real friend is one who walks in when the rest of the world walks out.” ~ Walter Winchell
7. They Don’t Keep Your Secrets
Confidentiality is essential in a true friendship. A fake friend might disclose your secrets or use private information against you.
8. They Make You Feel Like You’re Walking on Eggshells
Fake friends foster an environment where you must constantly watch what you say or do to avoid criticism or judgment.
“One fake friend can do more damage than five enemies.” ~ Unknown
9. They Constantly Ask for Favors Without Reciprocating
Fake friends will expect you to do things for them but rarely return the favor. The relationship is usually only one-sided.
10. Their Behavior Changes When They Don’t Get What They Want
Fake friends may act dramatically differently and reveal their true intentions if you refuse to give them what they want.
“A friend who stands with you in pressure is more valuable than a hundred ones who stand with you in pleasure.” ~ Edward G. Bulwer-Lytton
11. They Never Disagree with You
You’d think fake friends would be constantly at odds with you. However, they often agree with everything you say to maintain appearances and because they lack genuine interest.
12. They Get Upset When You Don’t Side with Them
Fake friends expect unwavering support and may be upset when you don’t agree with them.
“Fake friends are like shadows: always near you at your brightest moments, but nowhere to be seen at your darkest hour.” ~ Khalil Gibran
13. They Are Attentive Only When Others Are Watching
Fake friends might seem interested and attentive when in public but show little genuine concern in private.
14. Their Kindness Comes with Strings Attached
Genuinely kind people are kind freely, but fake friends often expect something in return.
“Many people are fakes, but before you judge them, make sure you’re not one of them.” ~ Unknown
15. They Keep Track of What They Do for You
Fake friends often keep a mental tally of their good deeds to use as leverage later. Their generosity is transactional.
16. They Give Over-the-Top Compliments
Insincere friends might shower you with exaggerated praise or flatter you to manipulate you but don’t genuinely admire you.
“Better an honest enemy than a false friend.” ~ German Proverb
Mark Webb is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in private practice at Oakwood Counseling Center in Valdosta. He is the author of How To Be A Great Partner and How To Argueproof Your Relationship.
