Divorce is never an easy process, but when dealing with a partner with Narcissistic Personality Disorder, the process can be even more challenging. Narcissistic Personality Disorder is a disorder that is characterized by a distorted self-image, lack of empathy, and an overwhelming need for admiration and attention. People with Narcissistic Personality Disorder are often difficult to deal with, and their behavior can be very unpredictable during a divorce.
Narcissistic Personality Disorder is especially prevalent in high net worth cases. There are several reasons for this.
First: Success can lead to a sense of entitlement. When people achieve success, they often begin to feel entitled to special treatment, recognition, or respect. It can also lead to a sense of grandiosity and an inflated sense of self-importance. Indeed, successful people may, in fact, receive more attention and praise from others, which can feed their ego and reinforce a sense of superiority. This sense of entitlement can be a precursor to narcissistic behavior. And all too often, this sense of entitlement carries over into the marriage in ways that are destructive to a relationship. A narcissist rarely views their spouse as an equal – but rather someone inferior than themselves.
If you are divorcing someone with Narcissistic Personality Disorder, it is essential to have an aggressive attorney who understands the challenges of dealing with this type of personality disorder. It’s important to understand that people with Narcissistic Personality Disorder do not deal in good faith. They lack empathy and are highly motivated by their own self-interest, which can make them manipulative, deceptive, and hostile during a divorce.
Here are some things you need to know when divorcing someone with NPD:
Get an Aggressive Attorney
It’s essential to have an aggressive attorney who understands the complexities of dealing with a partner with Narcissistic Personality Disorder. Narcissists often lack empathy for others and may not be able to understand or care about the needs and feelings of their spouse or children. This can make it difficult to find common ground or compromise in negotiations. This is why when divorcing a person with Narcissistic Personality Disorder you need an experienced and highly capable trial attorney who can protect your rights and ensure that you are not taken advantage of during the divorce.
Document Everything
Documenting everything is crucial when dealing with someone with Narcissistic Personality Disorder. This includes keeping a record of all conversations, emails, texts, and any other communication. Keep all financial records, including bank statements, credit card statements, and tax returns. This information may be important later in the divorce process.
Be Prepared for Court
Going to court may be necessary when divorcing someone with Narcissistic Personality Disorder. You should be prepared for a long and difficult legal battle. Narcissists may not take responsibility for their actions or be willing to compromise in negotiations. Narcissists also have a strong need for control and may become defensive or aggressive if they feel that they are losing control of the situation. This can make it difficult to arrive at a mutually acceptable agreement. For better or worse, sometimes the only way to get a fair and equitable outcome for you and your children is to take your case to Court. This is especially so when divorcing a narcissist.
Protect Yourself and Your Children
When dealing with someone with Narcissistic Personality Disorder, it’s important to protect yourself and your children. People with NPD are often emotionally abusive, manipulative, and controlling – and this may intensify during a divorce. Narcissists often try to use their children as pawns during a divorce to gain control, manipulate their spouse, or punish their spouse. They may even try to turn your children against you by making false allegations, so it’s essential to document any instances of emotional abuse or manipulation.
Don’t Take it Personally
When dealing with someone with Narcissistic Personality Disorder, it’s important not to take their behavior personally. People with NPD have a distorted self-image and can be very self-centered and manipulative. They may not understand the impact of their behavior on others, and their behavior may have nothing to do with you. Narcissists are prone to gaslighting and would have you believe that you are responsible for the things they do.
In conclusion, divorcing someone with Narcissistic Personality Disorder can be a challenging and emotionally draining process. It’s important to have an aggressive attorney who understands the complexities of dealing with this type of personality disorder. Document everything, protect yourself and your children, prepare for trial, take care of yourself, and don’t take it personally. With the right support, representation and guidance, you can successfully navigate the divorce process and move on with your life.