How To Deal With A Narcissistic Partner?

Before learning how to deal with a narcissistic partner, there needs to be an understanding of Narcissism.

There are 8 different types of Narcissism. Just like Autism, Narcissism is on a spectrum, however, Narcissism unlike autism is a personality disorder.

One type of Narcissism is healthy which everyone has to some degree.

The other types include a grandiose sense of self-importance, an obsession with an unrealistic fantasy of being rich, powerful, successful, beautiful above everyone else or more intelligent than other people, or being with who they consider as the most beautiful or most good looking.

A narcissist may also believe that they are more special or unique than anyone else and will only associate with those of high status.

They may also set up conversations so they will receive accolades and or compliments.

They may also have the tendency to be critical of everyone around them and speak down to people as if they are not worthy to be in their presence.

They expect ongoing loyalty.

They will walk over work colleagues to get to where they want to be at other people’s expense. Even as far as setting someone up to fail. They have no problem putting loved ones or work colleagues under the bus to save their own reputation.

They are not capable of empathy.

A narcissist can mimmick love but can’t truly love. They love the attention and ego boost their loved ones give them.

They have difficulty with self-control within high conflict and have difficulty regulating emotions.

Narcissists, contrary to how they present are actually very insecure which is why they latch onto empaths who will boost their ego but an empath cannot expect to receive empathy in return.

In a crisis, it is always about how the situation affects the Narcissist.

Keeping in mind Narcissism is on a spectrum, this means a Narcissist may not have 100% of all of these traits but may have a percentage of these.

What this looks like in a marriage is the Narcissist will have a sense of entitlement. They may be arrogant towards their partner and or family members.

Narcissists cannot self-reflect. They may have addictions such as drug and alcohol, sex, gambling, food, spending or work, etc.

They may be secretive, paranoid, have a distant relationship with the children.

Narcissists also have a “golden child” they focus on. They may go as far as telling the other children who their favourite child is.

They demand respect and submission in extreme cases and even to be put first ahead of the children 100% of the time.

There is no reasoning with a Narcissist.

If you want help getting out of a narcissistic relationship, read this article on leaving a narcissistic relationship.

We hope this article helps with the topic on: How To Deal With A Narcissistic Partner? If you believe you are in a relationship with a Narcissist and would like professional support, click here to book an appointment (online video counselling is available).