Narcissists are known for their manipulative tactics and self-centered behavior, often using these traits to gain the upper hand in a divorce. They may try to control the situation, twist facts, or use emotional manipulation to sway things in their favor. At every turn, they might try to outsmart you, even if you never knew it was supposed to be a competition. But what if you could turn the situation around? There are strategies you can use to outsmart a narcissist in a divorce and protect your interests from their tactics, and anyone who is entering a divorce with a narcissist or person with narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) should know them.
Why Would You Need to Outsmart a Narcissist in Divorce?
If you fail to outsmart a narcissist in a divorce, you could end up being manipulated into unfavorable terms, losing assets, or becoming embroiled in drawn-out legal battles. It's not uncommon for narcissists to even try to use their charm and manipulation skills to win over lawyers, judges, and other authorities involved in the divorce process.
Furthermore, the power struggles, lack of empathy, and emotional games that narcissists play can take an enormous toll on your mental health. That’s why it's crucial to be prepared with strategies to outsmart them, or at the least, not let them outsmart you in a manipulative way. It can help to realize that outsmarting a narcissist in a divorce isn't about 'winning' the divorce, so much as it is about protecting your rights, your assets, and most importantly, your emotional well-being.
What Will a Narcissist Do to Try to Seem Smart in Divorce?
Narcissists thrive on control and power, and they often feel a need to demonstrate their intellectual superiority, especially in stressful situations like a divorce. This need is driven by their inflated self-image and deep-seated fear of being seen as inferior.
During a divorce, a narcissist may employ various tactics to appear smarter than their soon-to-be ex-spouse. They might attempt to manipulate the facts of the case to their advantage and tip arguments in their favor by painting themselves as the victim and their spouse as the villain. A narcissist may also engage in "gaslighting," a form of psychological manipulation where they cause their spouse to question their own memory, perception, or sanity. By doing so, they create confusion and self-doubt, making it easier for them to control the narrative and appear as the smarter party.
A narcissist or someone who has been diagnosed with narcissistic personality disorder may play legal games, such as hiding assets, delaying proceedings, or making false allegations to gain an upper hand. Such actions are not necessarily a reflection of their intelligence, but rather a testament to their manipulative nature. Try not to see any such tactics as something to admire or praise, but instead, remember that the narcissist’s need for attention is driving their actions.
What Can You Do to Outsmart a Narcissist in Divorce?
Outsmarting a narcissist in a divorce can be part of the process of protecting your interests and preventing yourself from being manipulated. By outsmarting your narcissistic spouse, you can stay ahead of their strategies and look for unfair approaches they might have tried to use on you had you been unaware. In turn, you can help ensure that the divorce proceedings are as fair and unbiased as possible, which is better for everyone, even if the narcissist doesn’t realize it at first.
Strategies you can employ to outsmart a narcissist in a divorce might include:
- Hire a divorce lawyer: An experienced divorce attorney can guide you through the legal complexities, help you understand your rights, and devise strategies to counteract the narcissist's manipulative tactics. A good lawyer will also keep the focus on the facts, preventing the narcissist from controlling the narrative.
- Document everything: Narcissists are masters at twisting reality to their benefit. Keep a record of all interactions, including texts, emails, and conversations. This evidence can be crucial in court and can help expose any attempts at manipulation or gaslighting, which can be relevant in certain family law cases or legal contests.
- Maintain emotional distance: Narcissists feed off emotional reactions. Try to maintain a level-headed, business-like approach to your interactions. Don't let them bait you into arguments or emotional confrontations.
- Build a support network: Surround yourself with people who understand your situation and can provide emotional support. This network can include friends, family, therapists, or support groups. Having a strong support network can help you stay grounded and resilient in the face of the narcissist's tactics.
Will a Narcissist Try to Make Divorce a Competition?
A narcissist will often try to make divorce a competition. Narcissists view divorce as a battle that they must win rather than a process of negotiation and compromise. They may resort to tactics such as dragging out the process, turning mutual acquaintances against you, or even trying to get their children “on their side.” Their adversarial attitude can appear as bullying and attempts to control the narrative of the divorce.
Can You Peacefully Divorce a Narcissist?
Divorcing a narcissist peacefully requires a strategic approach, maintaining emotional control, and in many cases, the guidance of a legal professional.
When trying to keep your divorce peaceful, it can help to:
- Stay calm and focused: Narcissists thrive on emotional reactions. Staying calm and focused helps you avoid their manipulative tactics.
- Hire a lawyer: A lawyer experienced in handling divorces involving narcissists can provide invaluable guidance that keeps you focused.
- Strategize: A divorce strategy that includes mediation or collaborative divorce to minimize conflict and maintain control over the process.
- Don't expect change: Narcissists rarely acknowledge their faults or change their behavior. Understanding this can help you manage your expectations. After all, divorce is a way for you to move forward, not to change them.
- Seek therapy: Therapy can offer emotional support and coping strategies during this challenging time.
Gill Law Group, PC in Orange County, California, can help you manage a peaceful divorce with a narcissist. We have extensive experience in dealing with complex divorce cases, especially those involving narcissistic spouses. Our team of experienced attorneys can guide you through the legal intricacies, protect your rights, and help maintain a peaceful atmosphere throughout the proceedings, so you can get your divorce completed and move on to the next, narcissist-free chapter in your life.
Want to talk about how to divorce a narcissist? Call (949) 681-9952 to get a free consultation with Gill Law Group, PC.