The term narcissist is widely deployed as a term for someone who is too full of themselves. You might spot a muscular fellow at the beach who makes sure to catch glimpses of himself any chance he gets in the side view mirror of a car as a classic narcissist, but that actually might not be the case at all. Although it is tempting to blanket this term over anyone in love with their own reflection, a true narcissist has a few distinguishing and specific traits.
Narcissists are difficult to maintain a meaningful relationship with because they will be front and center to the relationship while their spouse will fall by the wayside. And in fact, family law attorneys see many divorces involving narcissists end up in court. This is because narcissists are notorious for their refusal to compromise or negotiate, have a strong sense of entitlement, and are prone to manipulating those around them. It is important to protect yourself with the best family law attorney to ensure you get a fair divorce.
Are you searching for the best family law attorney to advocate for you? Read on to learn about classic narcissist signs to look for and how Whipple, Mercado & Associates can help protect you.
Signs of a Narcissist
The American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (otherwise known as the DSM-V), lists the following as narcissistic traits, and a patient must display at least five of the following behaviors over a period of time to qualify as a narcissist. It is important to note that only a licensed psychiatrist or clinical psychologist can diagnose a person as a true narcissist.
Signs of Narcissistic Behavior:
1. An inflated sense of self-importance, including entitlement and self-centeredness. They may exaggerate their achievements and talents;
2. A fixation on fantasies of power, intelligence, success, beauty, or ideal romance;
3. A belief they’re superior and can only be understood by others who are special;
4. A need for constant attention and admiration from others, or in other words seek constant stroking of ego and validation;
5. An unreasonable expectation of favorable treatment they are not entitled to;
6. Exploitive behavior and take advantage of or step over others to meet their own needs and reach their own goals;
7. A lack of empathy that inhibits them from recognizing others’ feelings and needs;
8. An envy of others or a belief that other people envy them;
9. Grandiosity and show arrogant behaviors or attitudes.
If you decide to divorce your narcissistic spouse, it is important to prepare for the worst. Filing for divorce can be a major blow to your spouse’s self-esteem and calls into question his or her self-worth. In addition, a narcissist will fight and challenge you every step of the way. He or she will not admit fault or failure and will not admit to imperfect behavior. Additionally, a narcissist cannot see anything from anyone else’s point of view because he or she is always right and everyone else is wrong. This can make a divorce an aggravating and draining experience because it feels like no matter what you do, you can never win.
Hire a Family Law Attorney
It’s important to hire the best family law attorney you can find to handle your divorce case if you believe your soon-to-be ex is a narcissist. He or she will strike the moment you let your guard down, so you will need the best professional help to handle your case. Whipple, Mercado & Associates is here for you. You can schedule a free consultation, or give us a call today at (925) 344-5050.
References
American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.).