Although only 1% of the population has been officially diagnosed with narcissistic personality disorder (NPD), experts suggest that there may be far more that go undiagnosed. This is largely due to the fact that narcissism is a spectrum, and everyone has a little narcissism within their personality and behaviors. However, when these behaviors reach an extreme, especially at the expense of others, it can create a harmful and toxic environment. Entitlement, arrogance, and a lack of empathy are some of the key behaviors exhibited by narcissists to an extreme that have made this disorder a pillar in the dark tetrad.
Narcissistic behavior can destroy families from the inside out, changing the way the family dynamic works and affecting those around them in negative ways. Narcissistic family structures often foster poor communication, no clear boundaries, control issues, and secret-keeping. Additionally, these behaviors can lead to low self-esteem or addictive tendencies in children exposed to narcissism in the home.
Gaslighting, love-bombing, triangulation, and blame-shifting are just a few of the manipulative tactics used by narcissists to gain control in a relationship. If one begins to notice these signs in a partner or loved one, it may be time to start planning an escape. These escape plans must be done slowly and thoroughly to ensure that all assets and people involved are safe and protected. Many people affected by narcissists turn to a trusted family lawyer to help get their finances and other personal affairs in order. In extreme cases, these lawyers can help advise the victim on the need for a restraining order or a divorce as well.
While narcissism is incurable, healing and hope in the wake of a separation from a narcissistic partner is more than possible. Especially with the resources available today, victims are never alone in their journey to creating a new life.
