People who are co-parenting have to make joint decisions often. This can be challenging, even in the best of circumstances, but it’s much more difficult when one parent is narcissistic.
Dealing with a narcissist means having to figure out how to work with a person who’s self-centered and lives in a world of make-believe that they’ve set up for themselves. They get power from creating emotional reactions in other people, which can also make them difficult to co-parent with.
Keep communication focused
One of the most effective ways you can protect yourself and still co-parent with a narcissist is to keep communication focused on the children. Your ex may try to get under your skin by saying things they know will get to you. Keep your emotions composed while you’re talking to your ex. Consider using a third party or a monitored parenting app for communication.
Prepare for a lengthy battle
A narcissist is likely going to try to prolong the child custody case and the divorce in an effort to cost you more money. Being prepared for this from the start can help you as you’re going through the process. Because of the tendency of narcissists to try to prolong things, it may behoove you to keep proof of everything related to custody or the divorce.
The parenting plan is one of the best ways to protect your child and yourself through this process. Getting this together can be a challenge when you’re dealing with a narcissistic ex. Working with someone familiar with these situations may make the process a little easier.
