Divorcing a Narcissist

Most married couples enjoy a “honeymoon period” where they genuinely see the best in each other.

But what if you begin to suspect that the person you are with has a genuine personality disorder, such as narcissism?

The End of the Illusion

Narcissism as a personality disorder extends far beyond merely being overly self-confident and self-involved. The term is still thrown around rather loosely when, in fact, it is a psychological disorder. Common traits of narcissism – more common in men – include, but are not limited to:

• Grandiose sense of self-importance
• Lack of empathy
• Unreasonable expectations that create a sense of entitlement
• A belief that people are something to take advantage of and exploit

When these trains are put into practice, a spouse can seem like a possession, not a partner. In such circumstances, as the marriage frays and falters, it’s only natural to consider filing for divorce. It’s important to be aware, however, that divorcing a narcissist comes with some very specific challenges.

Be Wary of What’s to Come

These challenges flow from the fact that narcissists, with their competitive and adversarial nature, may be especially difficult to dealt with in divorce. They may view it as a competition they must win at all costs. The legal system is theirs to disrupt and manipulate.

In the next blog, the financial aspects of marital dissolution will be explored. For someone with a narcissistic personality disorder, money and possessions are status symbols that feed their egos. Taking even a small part away creates chaos for them, their spouse, and everyone involved in the divorce proceeding.