As the subreddit name suggests, the behavior of these people on the list falls under the term main character syndrome. It’s a fairly new colloquial definition used to describe someone who sees themselves as the main protagonist in a movie called ‘Life’ and always needs the spotlight on them. 

Even though the word ‘syndrome’ is part of its name, it’s important to keep in mind that it’s not an actual syndrome or a medical diagnosis. The term originated on social media and is colloquially used to describe people with narcissistic or self-centered tendencies.

It started as an innocent way for people to romanticize their lives and make even the most mundane aspects of them more interesting. This shouldn't really have any negative impacts. That is, until people develop the need to make everything about themselves.

“Main character syndrome describes the lens through which a person sees themselves,” explained Topsie VanderBosch, LMSW, a licensed therapist and mindset coach. “People who think they’re the main character tend to believe that they’re the most important person in most situations and interactions with people.”

Generally, someone with the main character syndrome exhibits dramatic behaviors, overdramatizes life events, feels like they’re better than other people, and has a lot of outward confidence that might hide underlying insecurities. Additional ones include romanticizing experiences or relationships, constantly seeking validation from social media, and needing to outshine others.

Experts say that viewing yourself as a main character can be healthy. However, like most things, it should be taken advantage of in moderation. VanderBosch explained that developing confidence and owning one’s life choices can be the positive effects of this syndrome. But when it causes people to hurt others with their self-absorbed behavior, it becomes unhealthy. If a person centers themselves too much and expects the world to revolve around them, they are stepping into destructive territory. 

The main character syndrome can also be mistaken for a similar term called main character energy. The latter has more positive connotations associated with the protagonist of a story, like confidence, charisma, and self-assurance. It’s a feeling of being in control of our own life story and embracing our uniqueness.

Unlike the main character syndrome, it doesn’t mean to always seek the spotlight. It’s more about living with intention, loving yourself, and choosing things that represent your values and ambitions, even if it means standing out or going off the beaten path.

People who have this so-called energy may run down a city street with everyone looking at them or dance in public without caring what others think. When in action, this can be a fun and dreamy way of dealing with the world.