So... you are about to divorce your narcissistic husband or wife.
You are legitimately concerned with figuring out the special dynamics involved in how to get through a divorce with a narcissist.
I'm curious about how many of the following 10 things you expect to encounter while divorcing your narcissistic spouse.
I've plugged in some ideas for how to best combat these traits in your divorce case here in Monmouth County.
Let's take a look...
1. CONTROL
Is your spouse a "control freak"?
Divorcing a narcissistic spouse can be tough due to their controlling tactics during the process: financial, emotional, legal, or parental.
Financial Control: Protect yourself by asking the judge to freeze joint assets, documenting everything, closing joint accounts, and safeguarding your credit.
Emotional Control: Set boundaries, get therapy support, focus on self-care, and work with an attorney who understands narcissistic dynamics.
Legal Control: Keep records, stay calm, be prepared, and follow court orders strictly.
Parental Control: Know your legal rights, document everything, and prioritize the children’s best interests.
2. LACK OF EMPATHY
Does your spouse lack empathy?
This makes negotiating hard because they minimize your feelings, blame you, and put their needs first.
- Recognize their narcissistic behavior and detach emotionally.
- Set clear boundaries.
- Focus on the bigger picture.
- Be strategic and patient.
- Get support from friends, family, or a therapist.
3. MANIPULATION
Is your spouse manipulative?
They may use charm, flattery, guilt, threats, gaslighting, and victim-playing during the divorce process.
Strategies to counter this include:
- Learn about narcissism and manipulation tactics.
- Limit communication and set firm boundaries.
- Stay calm and don’t engage in drama.
- Protect your financial interests with legal support.
4. BLAME-SHIFTING
Narcissists rarely take responsibility and often blame their spouse for everything.
5. GASLIGHTING
Gaslighting makes you doubt your reality. Stay grounded and work with experienced professionals.
6. GRANDIOSITY
Does your spouse think they’re special? Narcissists often believe they’re entitled to more than their fair share.
7. ENTITLEMENT
- They believe they deserve more assets and custody.
- Refuse to compromise.
- Expect praise and attention.
- Ignore your opinions.
- Get angry if their demands aren’t met.
8. ARROGANCE
Narcissists act superior and refuse to compromise. They may belittle you, blame you, and try to control the process.
9. LACK OF BOUNDARIES
They may invade your privacy, control your life, or involve the children inappropriately.
10. EMOTIONAL INSTABILITY
Narcissists often experience mood swings, rage, and manipulative breakdowns during divorce proceedings.
THE BOTTOM LINE
Learning how to get through a divorce with a narcissist is challenging and draining.
Recognize their tactics: control, lack of empathy, manipulation, gaslighting, and more. Use strategies to protect yourself and your family.
Establish clear boundaries, get support, document everything, and hire a skilled divorce attorney.
THERE'S A LOT MORE FREE HELP WHERE THIS ARTICLE CAME FROM
If you're considering divorce from a narcissistic spouse in Monmouth County, the most important thing is learning how to protect yourself, your kids, and your assets.
I've specialized in NJ divorce law for 37 years and have successfully represented many clients against narcissistic spouses.
My free course will teach you how to turn your situation around.
Until next time,
Steve Kaplan, Esq.
5 Professional Circle
Colts Neck, NJ 07722
www.KaplanDivorce.com
(732) 845-9010