Some married couples in Texas might ultimately decide to call it quits. However, if you’re divorcing a narcissist, you have to do things carefully.
What is a narcissist?
A narcissist is a person who has narcissistic personality disorder. Men are more likely to have the disorder. It’s characterized by an extreme, excessive need for admiration from others and a remarkable disregard for the feelings of other people. Narcissism makes a person feel entitled and that they always have to win.
What to expect when divorcing a narcissist
When you’re divorcing a narcissist, you shouldn’t expect to be able to use alternative means like mediation. Narcissists thrive in situations involving conflict, which means they will fight to the bitter end. You can expect to have a drawn-out traditional divorce in court. Your spouse’s goal is to win, which means they will fight you at every turn to prove themselves right.
Narcissists are good at conning people and can use their charm to their advantage. You will probably be painted in a negative light during the divorce. Your spouse might make up false accusations about you as a partner and as a parent if your marriage produced children.
If your spouse is a narcissist, they lack empathy. That means they will completely disregard your feelings and even the feelings of your children. As a result, they won’t have any problem using your children against you as a way to get what they want during your divorce.
What can you do?
Divorcing a narcissist means you have to be smart. Document everything that happens and all contact with your spouse. You might want to record your phone conversations. All of this is valuable evidence.
Protect your children as best you can. Your spouse might try to use them as pawns to get at you.
Avoid arguing with your spouse. Stay as calm as possible especially in court to show that you are rational. You might want to have witnesses come in to testify on your behalf as to your character.
Divorcing a narcissist is healthier than staying in a marriage with one. It’s important to seek help when you need it.
