How to judge someone’s character instantly, psychologist reveals

Have you ever met people and wished you had discovered their trueselves and character earlier? Well, you aren’t alone. In most cases, it’s only much later when people truly get to know a person or their values– and it’s too late till then. To help you judge a person’s true character quickly based on the subtle cues hidden behind polished small talks, psychologist Ziad Roumy recently shared a video on social media to share some cues one should look out for:

“What they brag about… tells us what they lack and what they want others to see in them, because people rarely brag about things which they truly feel secure in. Usually, bragging is related to areas where they need most validation,” Ziad said. And, rightly so!

Spot-on! That guy endlessly flexing his car? Probably insecure about status. Her constant humble-brags about fitness? Craving body approval. People who are secure and safe stay humble.

“Do they complain a lot about others? For example because they feel entitled… People complain when they feel stuck or something matters but when it’s mostly about others it can signal low accountability or high entitlement.”

People who constantly blame everyone else are a big red flag. While complaining occasionally is normal and fine, constantly complaining shows a victim mentality. Complainers drain energy; solution-seekers inspire. Your social circle’s vibe detector just leveled up.

“What makes them feel irritated usually shows you what they feel insecure about or what they value deeply. For example: If someone gets irritated by people being late, they probably value respect. If they get irritated by being ignored, it’s usually about self-worth and validation,” Zaid explained.

Triggers = treasure maps to values. Road rage over lateness? They crave respect. Snapping at feedback? Growth threatens ego. Ziad’s right—irritation shows one’s hidden insecurities. While secure people shrug; and sensitive souls flare fast. Relationship gold: Early irritation patterns predict long-term clashes. Decode triggers, dodge drama.

“Laughing shows you what they find normal and acceptable and is something rarely controlled. For example: Someone who laughs at others pain is a different person than someone who laughs at their own mistakes.”

Laughter leaks truth. Gut-laughs at others’ flops? Low empathy alert. Chuckling at personal blunders? Self-aware gem. Ziad hits core—humor reveals what feels safe/normal. Uncontrollable giggles bypass filters, showing moral compasses raw. Mean-spirited jokes signal cruelty tolerance; self-deprecating charm shows humility. Notice group laughs too—toxic crews bond over mockery. Your funny bone’s now a character detector. Laugh with wisdom, not at wounds