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# The Number of Squares You See Determines If You’re a Narcissist—Fact or Fiction?
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## Understanding the Illusion
The optical illusion in question typically looks like a **grid of overlapping squares or rectangles**, often in black and white, where some shapes are obvious and others are hidden in the pattern. Viewers are asked to **count the number of squares** they see at a glance. According to the “viral theory,” the number you perceive is supposed to correlate with personality traits, specifically narcissism.
For example:
* Seeing a **low number of squares**: You’re considered humble, grounded, and less self-centered.
* Seeing a **high number of squares**: You’re labeled as more self-focused, assertive, or narcissistic.
The simplicity of the premise—“just look at an image and discover your inner self”—is part of its appeal. It feels like a shortcut to **self-insight**, without the need for a long psychological test or professional evaluation.
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## Why People Are Drawn to Personality Tests Like This
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