It’s an unfortunate truth: not everyone in your life is as genuine as they seem.
In a world where appearances can be deceiving, fake people often slip into our inner circles, wearing the mask of friendship.
At first, they might seem supportive, kind, even trustworthy—but over time, subtle cracks in their façade begin to show.
A dismissive comment here, an insincere gesture there—it’s easy to brush them off as harmless. But these subtle behaviors can reveal a deeper truth: the friend you’ve let into your most personal space may not be as authentic as you thought.
In this article, we’ll explore 9 subtle signs that could indicate someone in your life is a “plastic friend.”
Recognizing these red flags is the first step to protecting your energy and surrounding yourself with relationships that truly matter.
1) They’re often absent during your low moments
Navigating the ups and downs of life is a challenge we all face.
Having a strong support system in the form of friends is crucial during these testing times. True friends show up when you need them, offering a shoulder to lean on or just a listening ear.
But what about those friends who seem to disappear when things get tough?
If you’ve noticed that a certain friend is often absent during your low moments, this could be a clear sign that they’re a plastic friend.
These fair-weather friends are usually more interested in the fun and benefits that come with friendship, and less so in the responsibilities and less glamorous aspects.
It’s important to note that everyone has their own stuff going on, and we can’t expect our friends to always be there for us. However, if this behavior is consistent and one-sided, it might be time to reevaluate the friendship.
2) They’re never genuinely happy for your achievements
Success and happiness can be infectious. When one of my friends gets a promotion, nails a presentation, or simply has a great day, I can’t help but share in their joy.
That’s what friends do, right?
But there was this one friend who never quite seemed to share in my happiness.
I remember when I got accepted into my dream university. While all my other friends were over the moon for me, this friend simply said, “Oh, that’s nice.”
It was as though my success somehow dimmed their light.
This is a classic sign of a plastic friend. True friends celebrate each other’s accomplishments without hesitation or hidden jealousy.
If your friend rarely seems genuinely happy for you, it may be time to question the authenticity of their friendship.
3) They always turn the conversation back to themselves
Every conversation seems to revolve around them. You might start off talking about your recent vacation, but somehow the topic shifts, and you end up hearing about their high-flying job, their new car, or their perfect relationship.
This is known as conversational narcissism, a term coined by sociologist Charles Derber. T
his behavior is often a subtle sign of a plastic friend. They’re more interested in hearing their own voice and less concerned about understanding or empathizing with your experiences.
True friendship is built on mutual respect and understanding. If your friend can’t seem to step out of the spotlight to hear about your experiences, it might indicate a lack of genuine interest in your life.
4) They disappear when they don’t need you
Friendship is not something to be taken off the shelf when needed and put away when inconvenient. It’s a committed relationship that requires time and effort from both sides.
However, if you’ve noticed that a particular friend only shows up when they need something from you, be it a favor, advice, or even just your company, this could be a sign of a plastic friend.
They seem to be around when they’re going through a breakup or need help to move house, but are mysteriously absent when you’re the one in need.
True friends are not just there for the good times or when they need something. They’re in it for the long haul, standing by your side through all of life’s ups and downs.
5) They’re quick to criticize but slow to compliment
Constructive criticism is a part of any authentic friendship. It helps us grow and become better versions of ourselves.
But when criticism outweighs compliments, it can start to feel less like friendly advice and more like constant judgement.
If you have a friend who always points out your flaws, mistakes, or shortcomings, but rarely acknowledges your strengths and achievements, this could be a sign of a plastic friend.
A true friend will balance their feedback with both positive and negative comments. They’ll cheer you on when you succeed and gently guide you when you falter.
But a plastic friend seems to derive some satisfaction from highlighting your failings, often without any constructive solutions or support.
6) They break your trust
Trust is the cornerstone of any meaningful relationship, especially friendships. It’s a sacred pact, a silent agreement that says, “I’ve got your back, and I know you’ve got mine.”
But what happens when that trust is broken?
If you have a friend who shares your secrets, spreads rumors about you, or betrays your trust in any way, they could be a plastic friend. These are not actions of a true friend.
Being betrayed by someone you trust can be incredibly hurtful. It’s like a punch to the gut that leaves you breathless and questioning everything.
True friends value and respect the trust you place in them. They understand the importance of keeping secrets and honoring confidences.
7) They never apologize or admit they’re wrong
I remember a time when I had a disagreement with a friend. It was over something trivial, but it escalated quickly.
In the heat of the moment, I said some things I didn’t mean.
Later, I realized my mistake and apologized. To my surprise, they refused to admit any wrongdoing on their part.
This could be an indicator of a plastic friend. They’re often unwilling to accept responsibility for their actions, and they rarely, if ever, apologize.
Apologizing doesn’t mean you’re wrong and the other person is right. It means you value your relationship more than your ego.
If there is someone in your inner circle who can’t swallow their pride and admit when they’re wrong, it might be time to reconsider the friendship.
8) They’re frequently envious
Envy is a normal human emotion, but when it becomes a recurring theme in your friendship, it can be a sign of a plastic friend.
If your friend often expresses jealousy over your achievements, possessions, or other friendships, it may indicate that they’re not truly happy for you.
Instead of celebrating your success, they might see it as a threat or a reminder of what they lack.
True friends will share in your joy and success without feeling threatened. They’ll celebrate your victories as if they were their own and support you in your endeavors.
Plastic friends, however, cast a shadow over your achievements and cause negative feelings in your friendship.
9) They’re not there for the long haul
Friendships are not just for the good times. They’re for all times — the highs, the lows, and everything in between.
If your friend is only around for the parties, the laughter, and the good times, but disappears when the going gets tough, this could be a clear sign of a plastic friend.
True friends stick with you through thick and thin. They’re there to celebrate your victories and help you pick up the pieces when things fall apart.
So remember, a true friend is one who walks in when the rest of the world walks out.
Final thoughts: It’s about self-respect
Recognizing a plastic friend in your life can feel disheartening, but it’s also an empowering step toward creating more authentic and fulfilling relationships.
Friendship should be a source of mutual support, trust, and encouragement—not a space where you feel drained, belittled, or second-guessed.
If you’ve identified these subtle behaviors in someone close to you, it’s worth reflecting on the role they play in your life.
While you don’t have to sever ties immediately, setting boundaries and reevaluating the relationship can help you protect your peace and prioritize connections that truly enrich your life.
So as you move forward, reflect on your relationships. Are they serving you? Are they helping you grow?
If not, it may be time for change. Because in the end, you deserve friends who truly value and respect you.
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