DN 31: Sigalovada Sutta This sutta includes Buddha's advice to
the lay practitioner. One section describes four types of
"enemies described as friends." Bragging/Boasting seems to be a
cause or effect of the characteristics of a not-so-good friend:
15. "Young man, be aware of these four enemies disguised as
friends: the taker, the talker, the flatterer, and the reckless
companion. 16. "The taker can be identified by four things: by
only taking, asking for a lot while giving little, performing
duty out of fear, and offering service in order to gain
something. 17. "The talker can be identified by four things: by
reminding of past generosity, promising future generosity,
mouthing empty words of kindness, and protesting personal
misfortune when called on to help. 18. "The flatterer can be
identified by four things: by supporting both bad and good
behavior indiscriminately, praising you to your face, and
putting you down behind your back. 19. "The reckless companion
can be identified by four things: by accompanyin