GirlsGuideTo | How to Spot a D-Bag in Seconds

It can be hard to read a new guy at first—some men come across all nice and charming early on, only to morph into Charlie Sheen down the road. How are you supposed to know if there’s a douche bag hiding under the cute exterior? You can avoid shady dudes if you keep an eye out for these negative body-language cues.

If He Won’t Meet Your Eye…

He might be hiding something and it could be that he’s a cheater. Guys who have a history of cheating often show tell-tale signs of deception, like refusing to meet your eye, smiling at other women when you're talking, or being vague about details.

If He Touches You A Lot…

He might be insecure. Men who aren't comfortable with themselves can be too needy, and touching your arm, shoulders, and back more than normal subconsciously signals that he's trying to grab onto you. These guys can also look down a lot or have poor posture.

If He’s in Your Personal Space Without Being Invited…

He might be controlling. Controlling dudes also tend to be loud and make big body movements to indicate that they're calling the shots (in their minds, at least).

If He Walks In Front of You…

He might be selfish. Guys who charge ahead subconsciously signal that they expect you to keep up with them. Not walking anywhere with him? Keep an eye out for preening gestures, like smoothing his hair back a lot or sneaking glances at his reflection in the mirror behind the bar. Also, be wary of men who say "I" a lot—it's a sign that he's No. 1 on his priority list.

If He Stares At You A Lot…

He might be the jealous type. Meeting your eye is one thing, but possessive dudes will make eye contact that's a little too intense. This is a sign he subconsciously feels like you belong to him.

So how do you know if he’s a good one? Body language can also clue us in to the positives about a new guy.

If He Lets You Walk in Front of Him…

He might be super respectful or acknowledging that you have the power in the relationship.

If He Rests His Hand on Your Back…

He might be subconsciously saying that he’s “got your back.” Touching the back is a protective gesture men use to let a woman know he's there for her and feels deeply connected to her.

If He Gives You High Fives or Fist Bumps…

He might view you as his true partner, since these gestures are usually done between really good friends or teammates. Just watch that this isn’t happening right away…that might mean he sees you as more of a friend than a love interest.

If He Tries to Get Physically Closer…

He might be showing that he feels a deep emotional connection. Small gestures like tilting his chin so his face is closer to yours or facing you instead of straight ahead indicate a strong bond and trust.