Divorcing a Narcissist on Long Island

New York divorce lawyers helps clients break away from self-obsessed spouses

Divorcing spouses often accuse each other of being self-centered. For some, this behavior is not just a reaction to the stress of the situation. It is a symptom of a serious mental health condition called narcissistic personality disorder (NPD). Many of the behaviors associated with NPD can break up relationships and make the marriage dissolution process much more difficult. If you’re divorcing a narcissist on Long Island, you should retain an attorney who is highly experienced at handling such cases.

At Bryan L. Salamone & Associates, P.C., we have guided clients with skill and sensitivity toward successful resolutions when they move on from relationships plagued by their partners’ narcissism.

Signs of narcissistic behavior

Medical experts have identified several signs that might indicate that someone has NPD, such as:

• Inflated sense of self-importance
• Refusal to consider the needs and feelings of others
• Constant need for praise and attention
• Excessive bragging
• Unrealistic perspective on their achievements
• Overwhelming sense of entitlement

These negative behaviors might not be attributable to clinical narcissism. However, should you find that your partner exhibits one or more of these symptoms on a consistent basis, medical intervention might be warranted.

Challenges associated with divorcing a narcissist

Divorce can test anyone’s mental well-being, but the strain resulting from the end of a long-term relationship can feed into someone’s existing narcissism, making things difficult for everyone involved. You might not be interested in contesting a divorce, but your spouse with NPD might be unreasonable about child custody arrangements and financial issues. Narcissists are often extremely defensive and unwilling to acknowledge anyone else’s views besides their own, thereby increasing the likelihood of a high-conflict divorce.

Strategies to help deal with narcissistic spouse

Family members of individuals with NPD sometimes use the phrase “walking on eggshells” to describe their daily life. This pressure can be magnified during a divorce, but there are strategies that can help you safeguard your interests and protect your own mental health. Set boundaries by speaking about divorce issues only at certain times and when your spouse is willing to be civil. Don’t indulge unreasonable behavior or get dragged into arguments that aren’t healthy for either of you. Make sure you document every transaction and significant event along the way so you are not susceptible to being “gaslit” by your husband or wife. Take stock of what’s happening and get professional help if you’re struggling.

Co-parenting during difficult times

Even when a co-parent is a narcissist, it is important to foster a positive relationship between them and your child. When discussions are tense, hold them away from your son or daughter and don’t lobby your child about how unreasonable your spouse is being. Depending on their age, it’s very possible that they are aware of their parent’s problems. They might require therapy or reassurance that they are not the cause of conflict within the home.

Legal help when divorcing a narcissist

As you go through your divorce, your attorney should help you achieve a favorable legal resolution while minimizing stress and distractions along the way. Our Long Island divorce lawyers truly understand the special challenges that exist when a husband or wife has NPD. We can counter unreasonable demands and keep negotiations civil no matter what tactics your ex might try. You can count on us to pursue a resolution that puts you in the best possible position after the divorce is final.

Contact an accomplished Long Island divorce attorney

Bryan L. Salamone & Associates, P.C., represents Long Island residents in simple and highly complex divorces, including cases where a client’s spouse engages in narcissistic behavior. For a consultation with an experienced New York attorney, please call 631-388-6009 or contact us online.