In the age of social media, it’s common to encounter optical illusions that claim to reveal aspects of our personality. One such viral meme suggests that the number of circles you perceive in an image indicates whether you’re a narcissist. While these illusions are engaging and often shared for fun, it’s important to understand their limitations and the psychology behind them.

Optical illusions have long fascinated psychologists and neuroscientists. They occur when our brain interprets visual information in a way that doesn’t match the physical reality. This discrepancy can reveal how our perception works but doesn’t necessarily provide insights into our personality traits.

The meme in question typically displays a series of concentric circles and asserts that seeing a certain number correlates with narcissistic tendencies. However, there’s no scientific basis for this claim. Narcissism is a complex personality trait characterized by grandiosity, a need for admiration, and a lack of empathy. Diagnosing it requires comprehensive psychological assessments, not a simple visual test.​

The allure of such memes can be attributed to cognitive biases like the Barnum effect, where individuals believe vague, general statements apply specifically to them. This effect is often exploited in horoscopes and personality quizzes, leading people to find personal meaning in ambiguous information.

While optical illusions can be entertaining and may prompt self-reflection, they shouldn’t be used as diagnostic tools. If you’re interested in understanding your personality, consider validated assessments like the Big Five Personality Test or consult a licensed psychologist.​

In conclusion, while the number of circles you see in an illusion might spark curiosity, it doesn’t determine your level of narcissism. Enjoy these visual puzzles for what they are—a fun diversion—and approach claims about personality insights with a healthy dose of skepticism.