Last Updated on December 13, 2024 by Christin
It’s not always easy to spot evil people in your life. They can be very cunning and manipulative. They often have a way of making you feel like you’re the one who is crazy or wrong. And they will do whatever it takes to get what they want, even if it means hurting someone else in the process.
So how can you tell if you’re dealing with an evil person? What signs should you look for? And how can you deal with an evil person once you spot them? Read on for signs you have an evil person in your life and tips on how to deal with them.
23 Signs You’re Dealing With An Evil Person In Your Life
There are some distinct character traits that evil people seem to share. And, just so you know, it’s alright if you don’t spot an evil person in your life right away. They are great at tricking people into thinking they are not evil because they enjoy manipulating others’ thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
1. They Lack Empathy
One of the most striking features of evil people is their lack of empathy. Empathy is the ability to comprehend and feel the feelings of someone else. It is what provokes compassion in us for others who are suffering and then motivates us to help them.
Evil people seem to be entirely incapable of empathy. They are indifferent to the pain of others and often take pleasure in causing them suffering.
This lack of empathy is thought to be one of the key features that distinguish evil people from ordinary criminals. It helps to explain why they are so callous and why they seem to have no remorse for their actions.
In short, without empathy, evil people are able to rationalize any action, no matter how cruel or violent.
2. They’re Incredibly Selfish
One of the defining characteristics of evil people is their complete and utter selfishness.
They believe that the world revolves around them and that they are entitled to whatever they want, regardless of the consequences.
This sense of entitlement often leads them to lie, cheat, and manipulate others in order to get what they want.
Evil people are completely self-absorbed and will stop at nothing to get what they want.
This selfishness is what makes them so incredibly dangerous.
3. They’re always Playing Mind Games
Evil people are often manipulative and enjoy playing mind games.
They might do this to toy with their victims, to get what they want, or simply because they derive pleasure from causing pain.
Whatever the reason, evil people tend to be skilled at playing mind games.
Often, they are able to read people very well and can use this knowledge to their advantage.
They might gaslight their victims or make them doubt themselves.
They might also play games of power and control.
Evil people might do all of this in order to feel more powerful or superior. In some cases, they might also do it because they have a deep-seated need for attention and validation.
Whatever the reason, mind games are a common tactic used by evil people.
4. They’re Control Freaks
Evil people are often control freaks because they want to exert power over others. They may enjoy feeling like they are in charge and that their decisions are the only ones that matter.
Control freaks often crave attention and may be very manipulative. They may also be prone to violence or threats of violence when they don’t get their way.
5. They’re Incredibly Jealous
Evil is often born of jealousy. When we see someone with something that we want – whether it’s a material possession, a talent, or simply good fortune – it’s only natural to feel a twinge of envy.
However, for some people, that envy quickly turns to jealousy, and the desire to take what belongs to others.
Jealousy is a powerful emotion, and it can lead people to do terrible things.
It can distort reality, making us believe that someone is a threat when they’re not.
It can make us paranoid and suspicious of those around us.
And it can drive us to commit acts of violence in an attempt to destroy the object of our jealousy.
Evil is often rooted in jealousy, making it one of the most dangerous and destructive emotions.
6. They’re Always Blaming Others
Psychology has shown that people who blame others for their problems are actually masking their own sense of insecurity. When we feel weak or inadequate, we look for someone else to blame in order to feel better about ourselves.
This is especially true of evil people, who often have a deep-seated belief that they are powerless and deserve to be punished.
By deflecting responsibility onto others, they are able to maintain their belief that they are good people despite their harmful actions.
In some cases, blaming others may also be a way of justifying one’s own bad behavior. If we can convince ourselves that someone else is responsible for our problems, then we can rationalize our own wrongdoings.
Whatever the reasons may be, it’s clear that blaming others is a defensive mechanism that allows evil people to maintain their power and control.
7. They’re Liars and Cheaters
Cheating and lying are some of the most universally despised character traits. And yet, evil people seem to have no problem with engaging in these activities on a regular basis.
Why is this?
One reason may be that evil people are simply more willing to break the rules. They see themselves as above the law, and so they feel justified in bending or breaking the rules whenever it suits them.
Additionally, evil people may feel that they need to lie and cheat in order to get ahead. In their minds, the ends always justify the means, no matter how unethical those means may be.
Whatever the reasons, it’s clear that liars and cheaters are more likely to be evil than those who play by the rules.
8. They’re Incredibly Charismatic
Evil people are often very charismatic. This might seem like a paradox, but there is actually a reason for it.
Charisma is all about the ability to influence and persuade others. And what better way to influence and persuade others than by being charming and likable?
Unfortunately, this same charisma that can be used for good can also be used for ill. Evil people are often able to take advantage of others by using their charm to manipulate and control them.
In this way, charisma can become a potent weapon in the hands of those who seek to do harm.
If you know someone who seems too good to be true, beware โ they may be using their charm for evil ends.
9. They Enjoy Making Other People Suffer
There is no one answer to this question, as the motivations of evil people can vary widely.
In some cases, evil people may take pleasure in causing suffering because they derive satisfaction from the power it gives them over their victims.
They may also enjoy the feeling of control that comes from knowing that they have the ability to inflict pain and misery.
In other cases, evil people may simply enjoy watching others suffer, regardless of the power or control that it gives them. This may be due to a desire to see others experience the same pain and suffering that they themselves have endured, or it may be a sign of a more general lack of empathy and compassion.
Whatever the reason, there is no doubt that evil people can take great delight in making others suffer.
10. They’re Experts at Gaslighting
One of the most insidious and effective forms of abuse is gaslighting.
Gaslighting is a form of emotional abuse in which the abuser deliberately manipulates events and information in order to create doubt and confusion in the victim, causing them to question their own memory, perception, and sanity.
This can be done through a variety of tactics, such as denial, lying, false accusations, changing the subject, or making light of the victim’s concerns.
Over time, the victim begins to doubt themselves and their own experiences, making them more reliant on the abuser for information and guidance. This makes it very difficult for victims to break free from the abusive relationship.
Many people ask why evil people are so good at gaslighting their victims.
One theory is that abusers learn these techniques through observation and trial and error.
Regardless of the reasons, it is clear that gaslighting is a very effective form of abuse that evil people use to create confusion and doubt in their victim’s minds.
11. They Have No Remorse
In some cases, evil people may simply be sociopaths who do not feel empathy for others and therefore have no remorse for the pain they cause.
In other cases, evil people may rationalize their actions, believing that they are justified in causing pain if it furthers their own goals.
Still, others may take pleasure in causing pain, feeling a sense of power or satisfaction when they see others suffer.
Whatever the reason, evil people often have little or no regard for the suffering of others, making them dangerous and difficult to deal with.
12. They’re Always Angry
Evil people are often angry because they feel like the world owes them something. They believe that they are entitled to happiness and success and that anything less than that is an injustice.
As a result, they lash out at the people and things around them, taking their frustration and anger out on the world. This can be seen in how evil people often treat others-with contempt, cruelty, and indifference.
They may also exhibit a lack of empathy, seeing others as objects to be used rather than human beings with feelings and needs.
In some cases, evil people may also be motivated by a desire for power or control. By causing pain and suffering, they feel like they are able to exert their power over others.
This sense of control can be addictive, leading evil people to repeat their behavior even when it causes harm to themselves or others.
13. They’re Incredibly Manipulative
Evil people are often very manipulative. They are able to twist other people’s words and actions to suit their own needs.
They are also experts at making others feel guilty or responsible for their own problems. This allows evil people to control those around them and get what they want.
Additionally, evil people are often very charming and charismatic. This can make it difficult for others to see through their facade.
14. They’re always Playing Games
Evil people are always playing games because they enjoy seeing other people suffer. They get a sense of power and control when they can manipulate others and make them do things against their will.
Games give them a way to test their abilities and see how far they can push someone before they break.
Evil people also use games as a way to release their pent-up frustration and anger. When they lash out at others, it makes them feel better about themselves.
Finally, playing games allows evil people to avoid taking responsibility for their own actions. They can blame their bad behavior on the game, instead of admitting that they are the ones who are really responsible.
15. They Have a Dark Sense of Humor
There are many different theories about why evil people have a dark sense of humor, but one of the most prevalent is that it allows them to distance themselves from their victims.
By making jokes about the suffering of others, they are able to create an emotional barrier that makes it easier for them to carry out their crimes.
Also, they may actually find their dark jokes funny. They see something funny to them in the suffering of others and the evil of the world.
In some cases, this sense of humor may also be a defense mechanism, used to deflect blame or responsibility for their actions.
16. They’re Never Satisfied
Evil people are never satisfied, no matter what they have.
They’re always looking for more and they’ll never be happy with what they have.
This can often lead to them taking things from other people or manipulating others into giving them what they want.
17. They Have a History of Violence
Evil people often have a recorded history of violence.
They might have been arrested for assault or battery, or they might have a history of domestic violence.
This violence is often a way for them to control and manipulate other people.
18. They’re Always Plotting And Scheming
There’s something about evil people that just makes them seem so…evil. They always seem to be plotting and scheming, whether it’s devious schemes to take over the world or more mundane plots to make someone’s life a living hell.
For the most part, they are scheming because they’re just plain old nasty people who enjoy making other people’s lives miserable and want to get their way – always.
19. They’re Experts At Playing The Victim
There’s a reason why evil people are often experts at playing the victim. It’s because they’re very good at manipulating others into feeling sorry for them.
By making themselves seem like they’re the ones who are being wronged, they can get away with all sorts of bad behavior.
And because they’re so skilled at this, it can be hard for others to see through their act.
So if you ever find yourself feeling sorry for someone who seems to be a constant victim, it’s important to take a step back and consider whether or not they might be playing you. Chances are, if they’re always making themselves out to be the victim, there’s probably more to the story than meets the eye.
20. They Get Off On Other People’s Pain
Evil people derive satisfaction from the feeling of power and control that comes from inflicting pain on others. When someone is in pain, they are vulnerable and at the mercy of their tormentor.
For some people, this sense of power and control can be addictive, leading them to seek out more and more opportunities to harm others.
Another theory suggests that evil people enjoy watching others suffer because it makes them feel superior. Seeing another person in pain reinforces the belief that they are better than others, and this sense of superiority can be very satisfying.
Whatever the reason, it is clear that for some people, causing pain to others is a source of pleasure. And unfortunately, there is no easy way to stop them from doing it.
21. They’re Always Testing Boundaries
One of the things that makes evil people so difficult to deal with is their tendency to always test boundaries. Whether it’s pushing the limits of what’s socially acceptable or outright breaking the law, evil people seem to have a need to see how far they can go before they’re stopped.
Part of this may be due to a desire to demonstrate their power and control over others, but it can also be a way of gaining a sense of thrill or excitement.
Evil people may also believe that testing boundaries will help them get away with more in the future.
Whatever the reason, it’s clear that boundary-pushing is a hallmark of evil people – and one that can make them particularly dangerous.
22. They’re Always Seeking Attention
Often, evil people believe that if they can get others to pay attention to them, then they will be able to influence them and bend them to their will.
In a sense, attention is a form of currency for evil people, and they will go to great lengths to accumulate it.
23. They Have No Conscience
One of the most baffling aspects of human behavior is why some people seem to have no conscience. To those of us who do have a conscience, it can be hard to understand these people.
They may lie, cheat, or even hurt others without any remorse.
Some experts believe that a lack of conscience is the result of early childhood trauma or a defective brain structure.
Others argue that it is simply a matter of personal choice.
Whatever the cause, people who lack a conscience often find themselves in conflict with the law and society at large. Without a moral compass, they are unable to navigate the complexities of right and wrong. As a result, they often end up leading solitary and often tragic lives.
How to Deal With An Evil Person In Your Life
If you’re unfortunate enough to be dealing with an evil person in your life, there are some things you can do to protect yourself. It’s essential to do this if you want to live your best life.
Here are a few tips:
1. Keep Them At A Distance
Evil people will only continue to hurt you if you let them. So it’s important to keep a safe distance from them.
This might mean ending a relationship, moving away, or changing your phone number. Whatever it takes to keep yourself safe, do it.
2. Don’t Fall For Their Games
As we’ve seen, evil people love to play mind games and manipulate others. But you don’t have to fall for it.
When it comes to interacting with others, it’s important to be aware of the potential for manipulation. Whether it’s a colleague at work who is trying to take credit for your ideas or a friend who is always asking for favors but never reciprocating, manipulative behavior can take many forms.
The key to avoiding these games is to keep your guard up and be assertive in setting boundaries. If you’re clear about what you will and won’t tolerate, manipulators will quickly learn that they can’t take advantage of you.
It’s also important to be aware of the signs of manipulation, such as flattery, withholding information, or making guilt-inducing statements. If you’re able to recognize these tactics, you’ll be better equipped to diffuse them before they take hold.
3. Stand Up For Yourself
It can be difficult to stand up for yourself, especially when you’re dealing with someone who seems bent on causing harm. However, there are several things you can do to protect yourself from an evil person.
First, it’s important to stay calm and collected. Don’t let the other person rile you up or get under your skin.
Second, try to see the situation from the other person’s perspective. What are they trying to accomplish? What are their motivations? Once you understand their goals, you’ll be better equipped to stop them from causing you any harm. You can make it clear to them that what they want, you are not offering – whether it be sympathy, a fight, or anything else.
Finally, don’t be afraid to ask for help. If you’re dealing with someone who is truly evil, you may need assistance from others in order to keep yourself safe.
4. Get Aways From Them If You Can
It’s not always easy to get away from an evil person in your life. They may be family, friends, or even romantic partners. But if you can, it’s important to do so.
Remember, you don’t have to stay friends with someone forever or even remain acquaintances.
Evil people drain your energy, make you feel bad about yourself, and can even hurt you physically or emotionally.
If you’re in a relationship with an evil person, it’s likely that they’re manipulating and controlling you. They may also be gaslighting you, which is when they make you question your own reality. This can be incredibly confusing and upsetting.
If you’re around someone who is constantly making you feel bad about yourself, it’s time to get away from them.
You deserve to be around people who make you feel good about yourself, not people who bring you down.
5. Seek Professional Help
If you find yourself dealing with an evil person, it can be tough to know how to proceed.
Evil people are often manipulative and may use gaslighting techniques to try to control you.
They may also be expert liars, making it hard to trust your own instincts.
As a result, it can be difficult to know how to protect yourself from their machinations.
Professional help can provide you with the tools you need to deal with an evil person in your life. A therapist can teach you how to identify gaslighting and other manipulative behaviors and can help you develop a plan for dealing with them.
Additionally, therapy can provide a safe space for you to process the effects of the evil person in your life and can help you develop healthy coping mechanisms.
If you find yourself struggling to deal with an evil person, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. It could be the best decision you ever make.
