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A strange image of a pair of bright pink shorts has been circulating online, accompanied by a bold claim:
“How many holes you see determines if you’re a narcissist.”
At first glance, it looks like a fun personality test. People are encouraged to count the holes and compare answers—2, 5, 7, or even 9—and then supposedly discover something about their character.
But is there really any truth to this?
The short answer: no.
This viral post is not a psychological test, and it does not measure narcissism or any other personality trait. Instead, it is a classic example of an internet illusion designed to spark curiosity, debate, and engagement.
Let’s break it down.
🩳 What You’re Actually Looking At
The image shows a pair of shorts with two visible circular holes drawn on them. However, the confusion comes from how people choose to interpret what “counts” as a hole.
Some viewers only count the obvious rips.
Others include functional openings like:
- The waistband opening
- Two leg openings
- Pocket openings (if pockets are assumed)
- Decorative or torn areas
Because of this, different people arrive at different answers.
This is why the image spreads so easily—it creates disagreement, and disagreement fuels engagement.
🧠 The “Narcissist Test” Claim Is Not Real
One of the biggest misconceptions attached to this image is the idea that your answer reveals whether you are a narcissist.
This is not supported by psychology in any way.
Clinical psychology does not use visual puzzles like this to diagnose personality traits. Narcissism is a complex psychological condition that involves long-term behavioral patterns such as:
- Excessive need for admiration
- Lack of empathy in certain contexts
- Grandiose self-image
- Difficulty accepting criticism
It cannot be determined by counting holes in a picture.
So if you saw different numbers and worried about what it “means,” there is nothing to worry about—this is purely a viral internet gimmick.
🔍 Why People See Different Numbers
The real reason this image confuses so many people is because it relies on interpretation, not objective counting.
Let’s look at why answers vary:
1. Visible openings
Most people immediately count the obvious holes created by rips or design.
2. Functional clothing openings
Some include:
- Waist opening (1)
- Two leg openings (2)
That alone can already lead to 3 holes.