Visual challenges circulating online promise to reveal personality traits simply by looking at an image. One of the most popular claims is that the number of circles visible in an image determines whether someone is a narcissist. This idea quickly spread on social media, although, as we will see, its value in assessing psychological traits is more anecdotal than scientific.
What does this visual test propose?
The challenge involves counting the circles in an image containing obvious elements (for example, seven distinct circular shapes) and others that some people perceive as circular, depending on how they perceive the image. Based on the answers:
If you see 7 circles: You count only the most obvious elements. This is interpreted as a practical, concrete way of thinking.
If you see 8 circles: This also applies to the circle that forms the edge of the image (like the one on the plate). This is related to perception that takes into account context and surroundings.
If you see 9 circles: You recognize invisible or hidden spaces, indicating attention to subtle details.
