Hang on. It’s gonna be a bumpy ride! Narcissists and Divorce
You might conclude that the only way to end your marital issues after years of putting up with narcissistic behavior from your spouse is through a divorce. Sadly, getting a divorce from a narcissist might be harder than it sounds.
Here is a list of some things that might come up while divorcing a person with a narcissistic personality disorder. In addition, we offer some good advice on how to handle them:
1. It’s likely that they will oppose settlements.
Many couples choose settlement over courtroom battles. After all, this choice reduces stress on spouses and kids while also saving time and money. Unfortunately, narcissists frequently reject divorce agreements. Focusing on the divorce's most crucial problems will help you save money and time if you anticipate a protracted process. With the assistance of your lawyer, you can determine when it is and is not worthwhile to fight for what you want.
2. They may attempt to destroy important documents or papers.
Before filing for divorce, gathering all relevant financial documents and information is crucial. However, obtaining these records before filing is much more important if you're married to a narcissist. After all, your spouse might empty bank accounts or sabotage paperwork to conceal assets.
In an effort to harm your reputation, they might also try to gain access to your email and social media accounts. You may even want to have your phone or automobile tested for trackers or other monitoring equipment, depending on the facts of your case.
3. They might try to use the children to influence you.
Most people desire to take all action possible to lessen the impact of a divorce on the kids. However, narcissists frequently manipulate kids to further their agendas or enhance their own image. For instance, a narcissist may want to obtain complete custody in order to appear to be a better parent. Don't wait to involve a family lawyer in the case as soon as possible if you have concerns regarding matters including child custody or support.
4. They might try to sway you against your better judgment.
A narcissist may attempt to persuade their partner to reconsider having a divorce. A narcissistic spouse may gaslight you about mistakes made during the marriage. In addition, they may promise to reform or shower you with gifts in order to persuade you to give them just one more chance. However, don't allow these strategies to sway you if you're sure that you want to divorce. Narcissists who don't receive mental treatment frequently return to their old behaviors.
5. They'll probably try to make you feel bad.
Narcissists may lash out at those who are making them unhappy. They frequently see divorces in particular as failures. Narcissists love to win. Therefore, knowledgeable divorce lawyers are good at giving these difficult partners some minor successes to celebrate. This is an important strategy in a divorce. Sometimes it's better to let a narcissist "win" so you won't have to make concessions on other crucial issues.
6. They will try to make the case much more difficult than it needs to be.
Narcissists are almost always more difficult to divorce. Therefore, if you intend to divorce a partner you believe to be a narcissist, the best course of action is to get in touch with a skilled family law attorney as soon as possible. The best lawyers have the expertise and abilities necessary to complete your divorce as quickly and painlessly as they can.