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Are you really living with a ‘narcissistic’ husband, wife or partner?

Living with a narcissistic husband, wife or partner, or anyone else with narcissistic traits is undoubtedly challenging.

Interestingly, more women look for relationship help with this issue than men. This is not surprising though – research on gender differences in narcissism found that men consistently scored higher.

While you may love your partner very much (or not anymore!), their narcissistic tendencies can make it difficult for you to live with them and feel loved in return.

So how can you recognise narcissism?

Knowing that can at least help you to make sense of seemingly senseless and selfish behaviour. You need that for your own sanity when you even think you’re living with a ‘narcissist’!

(Please note: using the term ‘narcissist’ isn’t really helpful – it is an unfortunate label that doesn’t really describe the whole person. Nevertheless, I use the term in this article, because I suspect that is what you’ve searched for.)

10 SIGNS YOUR HUSBAND, WIFE OR PARTNER MAY HAVE NARCISSISTIC TRAITS You may (well… you both) have a problem if he or she… Expects continued appreciation and admiration from you and others – often referred to as ‘narcissistic supply’. (This expectation comes from a sense of entitlement and an exaggerated sense of self-importance) Overestimates their abilities and underestimates the contribution of others – this is probably well-documented in their social media profiles and is a very telling narcissistic trait Fantasises about unlimited success in whatever they do (magical thinking) Compares themselves very favourably with high-status people, assuming only they will understand and truly appreciate them Is often unreasonably demanding – having unrealistic expectations of you (and others) – a personality trait that makes it almost impossible to create a healthy relationship Contributes very little to the relationship Has little or no empathy, often sneers, is contemptuous and over-critical of you and others (in other words: mentally abusive) Is unwilling to discuss your feelings or concerns Lacks insight into themselves and their behaviour Lacks appreciation of you, your feelings, your values and beliefs, your interests and concerns.

He or she may also be utterly charming, interesting, entertaining and happy-go-lucky. No wonder then that you find yourself drawn to them despite the relationship problems and the difficulties in figuring out how to live with a narcissist.

It may have taken you some time to realise that his or her personality is sadly all about ‘me, myself and I’. You (and possibly others) may now be thinking of them as selfish, pompous, arrogant, snooty, overbearing, big-headed and/or a user, who never-ever apologises for their behaviour.

Dealing with a narcissistic husband, wife or partner is difficult!

So, in this article, I’m aiming to help you understand narcissistic traits and give you some support.

I’ll also give you some ideas on how to make the most of your relationship despite the challenges that come with these traits.

A narcissistic person is very likely to lack any empathy

Is your partner truly narcissistic?

A diagnosis of Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) is a classified mental disorder in the DSM – a handbook used by the American Psychiatric Association as well as psychiatrist world-wide.

Only a suitably qualified mental health or medical professional can diagnose the disorder with the help of a narcissistic personality inventory.

Different types of narcissism

They’ll also be looking for what type of narcissism a person has. Narcissism can be of the prosocial- or antisocial type. The latter type you’re most likely familiar with and probably prompted your search for information).

And then there are some subtypes:

grandiose narcissism (the excessive selfie-posting type (link opens in a new tab))

malignant narcissism (see further down)

leadership narcissism

entitlement narcissism

vulnerable narcissism.

Your partner or spouse may not meet the required criteria for a diagnosis of NPD, yet clearly (at least to you) has some narcissistic tendencies. And regardless of the label he or she may or may not have, you have to deal with those energy-sapping narcissistic behaviours.

So, know that you’re not alone!

Living with a narcissist?

Why do they behave in that way?

If you’re dealing with a narcissistic husband, wife or partner, the following could give you a little insight.

Your partner or spouse may be protecting themselves against, for example, underlying…

Insecurity – some actually have a fragile sense of self, are easily hurt by criticism and are floored by failures (aka ‘narcissistic injury’)

– some actually have a fragile sense of self, are easily hurt by criticism and are floored by failures (aka ‘narcissistic injury’) Unresolved conflict – for whatever reason, they didn’t get what they needed or expected from their caregivers in childhood.

– for whatever reason, they didn’t get what they needed or expected from their caregivers in childhood. Unpleasant memories – we all have them, but a narcissist can’t let them go – hence the defensive behaviours and the…

– we all have them, but a narcissist can’t let them go – hence the defensive behaviours and the… … unpleasant feelings – which they’re constantly trying to escape from, in ways that are detrimental to others

– which they’re constantly trying to escape from, in ways that are detrimental to others Stereotypical gender role – they may exhibit behaviours which they learned from their parents or other care-givers

Any of these are likely to be rooted in childhood, including – for some – rejection at the hands of the very people who should have shown them unconditional love and acceptance. (At least, this is the psychodynamic explanation for now.)

As a result of this:

They now defend their feelings of rejection by continually telling themselves that they are perfect and lovable.

They may convince themselves that they are self-sufficient and do not require warm relationships with others. This does not mean that they really don’t need others…

They feel rejected, forlorn, empty and depressed when someone leaves them. It’s too much of a reminder of the past, without their consciously making that connection.

In reality, the narcissist’s self-esteem often appears high but sadly, for many (certainly not all), is likely to be very fragile. And they’re almost completely unable to cope with criticism because it can leave them feeling crushed.

Is your husband or partner over-confident, self-assured or narcissistic?

How to deal with a narcissistic husband, wife or partner

People with narcissistic behaviours are usually charming in the beginning.

However, their self-centred view makes it really difficult for them to develop a strong long-term relationship. Their lack of empathy may even put your safety at risk. Living with a narcissist can feel like you’re constantly walking on a tightrope.

I wouldn’t be surprised if, over time, you’ve found yourself increasingly irritated, frustrated, stressed or desperately hurt by them – and perhaps even scared.

You may have got into a spiral of negativity, with disappointments stacking up and dragging you down. You may suffer from low self-esteem as a result of this. At the same time. you may still love – or think you love – that person.

It’s worth taking my comprehensive relationship compatibility test (link opens in a new tab) though to find out how viable this relationship or marriage really is!

Before you read on… Know that narcissism comes in many ‘shades’. At one end of the spectrum is malignant Narcissistic Personality Disorder, and this is a fully classified mental disorder. (It’s similar to psychopathy, although a psychopath doesn’t care about being the centre of attention. NPD also shares many of the same character traits as Borderline Personality Disorder, including rapid changes of mood, unstable personal relationships and a deep-rooted fear of abandonment.) At the other end of the scale, someone may be displaying some really irritating narcissistic traits. Even just a couple of these traits can make it difficult to maintain a healthy relationship.

See also my articles: Signs of an abusive relationship and Signs of emotional abuse FIRST-CLASS RELATIONSHIP COACHING I have partnered with the #1 relationship coaching service Relationship Hero.

Their diverse team of qualified and experienced relationship coaches is available 24/7.

Coaches are ready to help you now… GET STARTED with 10 MINUTES FOR FREE… For the purposes of this article, I’m going to assume that your partner isn’t at the dangerous end of the narcissism spectrum. If they are, then you’re in an abusive relationship!

You’ll be at risk of financial, physical and emotional abuse. I’d also strongly advise you to seek professional help as soon as possible.

Instead, if your partner is displaying mildly narcissistic traits and you’re looking for ways to cope with the problem, here are some ideas…

How to live with a narcissist – a survival guide

Top 8 Tips for surviving and dealing with a narcissistic husband, wife or partner

Here is your survival guide for living with a narcissistic spouse:

1. Be safe!

Don’t allow your partner to violate your boundaries.

2. Take time to focus on meeting your own emotional needs

Give yourself permission not to think about your partner or spouse 24 hours a day!

3. Remind yourself frequently that you are still uniquely smart and lovable

Your partner may well suggest otherwise, so you’ll need to learn to protect yourself. I highly recommend you get the hypnosis downloads “Boosting Your Self-Esteem” and “Dealing with Narcissistic Behaviour” via my page: Self-hypnosis frequently asked questions). Self-hypnosis is such an effective and user-friendly way to help yourself! 4. Make good use of your resources to deal with your own pre-existing insecurities, so that you’re better protected against your partner’s criticism.

5. Accept that you cannot change your partner

If only you could change your spouse! Believe me, I too have wished I could many a time (my spouse had no narcissistic traits though). Know that your spouse is incapable of forming worthwhile relationships.

They can’t form a truly loving, close relationship and you’re unlikely to ever really get through to them no matter how much love, care and consideration you show them.

6. Don’t take it personally

See their narcissistic behaviour as a reflection of their insecurities. That also counts when they’re giving you the silent treatment!

7. Share your experience

Talk to a trusted person. I highly recommend you connect with an online, professional, licensed therapist for the best advice.

Alternatively, you could ask for relationship advice from a priest or another wise individual in your own surroundings – someone you know won’t judge and won’t blab (unless you’re in danger of serious harm).

8. Decide for yourself what is- and what isn’t acceptable behaviour

Write it down. Discuss it with someone you trust to make sure that you’re not making excuses for their behaviour. Set clear boundaries, particularly if you’re living with a narcissistic husband, wife or partner as per #1 and decide what the consequences will be for unacceptable behaviour (no petty punishments though). Stick to it!

You may increasingly feel that you can no longer carry on with this relationship. And if that’s the case, give yourself permission to feel okay about that. And give yourself time to make the right decision – for you.

Can you ever hope to change things when you’re living with a ‘narcissist’?

Put simply: you can’t change your other half – not if you have a narcissistic husband, wife or partner, or anyone else for that matter – whatever the problem.

Not because he or she is – or could be – narcissistic. But because no-one has (or should have) sufficient power over another person in order to force them to change. And a ‘narcissist’ in particular is unlikely to ever seek treatment – either of their own accord or at the suggestion of someone else.

All of us choose to change our behaviour on account of feedback – positive or negative – and self-reflection.

Those with narcissistic traits lack the capacity for self-reflection and have little insight into their own shortcomings and impact on others. Therefore, it’s unlikely that they will want to change – largely because they won’t ever think they need to!

So, bringing about change in this kind of relationship is very challenging indeed, but not impossible. In any case, I would strongly advise that you get professional help – either to navigate the relationship or to end it altogether.

10 tips for surviving living with someone with some narcissistic traits Do you really love your spouse? Do you really want to make things work? Then here’s your survival guide with tips what might work when you’re dealing with a spouse or partner with some narcissistic traits: Talk about why our relationships with others are so important, and what it means to feel really connected with another person. Suggest any behavioural changes (start small) without any reference to wrongdoing on their (or your) part. Emphasise the benefits – to him/her, you and the relationship of a particular change or action, so that it builds their view of themselves as being ‘good’. Talk about what the two of you have achieved in terms of change and growth, however little. Avoid pointing the finger at all costs! Remind yourself frequently of what you do like about your partner, instead of getting fixated on what you don’t like. Offer someone else’s opinion about a specific behaviour from your partner that might have irritated them. Sandwich it very gently between positives, though. Do your best to make the connection between their past hurts and their behaviour now – the more empathic you feel the less likely you are to get into a spiral of negativity (honouring your own boundaries though). Gain their interest, if you can, about the story of the lives of people around them. Help them focus outward – away from me, myself and I – in a fun way, by asking questions such as: Who did something funny at work today? How’s so-and-so getting on with his/her new project? What’s your favourite kind of personality to be around and why? Etc. Help them understand gradually and gently what others feel and might truly want, need or expect from them. And the most important one: BE PATIENT and stick to your own boundaries.

You may also find my article How to deal with a jealous partner helpful.

Dealing with criticism when you have a narcissistic husband, wife or partner

Someone with a diagnosis of NPD, or even with ‘just’ some traits of narcissistic personality disorder, can find criticism particularly challenging. They may respond by behaving rudely and aggressively if criticised.

The best thing you can do here is to try and help them to recognise that no one is perfect. Each one of us, including them, has our share of imperfections and shortcomings.

For more on this, take a look at my article on how to deal with criticism.

How to encourage understanding and empathy

Remember that someone with narcissistic traits struggles with empathy (or, in full-blown cases of NPD, has no empathy at all). That can make building a healthy relationship really hard for the other partner.

So, to try and encourage understanding, aim to have some playful conversations together every day.

For example…

Ask them to guess what you’re thinking about

Likewise, guess what they’re thinking about right now

Take turns to have a 10-minute conversation about each other – your successes, preferences and joys, but also your failures, disappointments and challenges.

These types of conversations may help them to slowly and gently get some insight into other people’s feelings.

You’ll probably need to be pretty patient when you first try these kinds of chats. So be sure to start only when you’re feeling positive and generous!

When is it time to end a relationship (or get a divorce)?

There may come a time when you feel you’ve truly had enough.

It can be really hard to have a rewarding relationship with someone whose main focus is him/herself.

And if your partner meets all the criteria for Narcissistic Personality Disorder, it’s impossible to ever have a healthy relationship with someone who abuses you!

You may have tried everything you could to help the relationship (and yourself) survive and you may have run out of ideas and energy. It’s very likely that your self-esteem has taken a complete nose-dive too.

Hop over to my article on how to know when your relationship is over, if you’re at all in doubt.

Know that it is okay to tell your spouse you want a break, end the relationship or get a divorce if you need to.

After all, its success does need two people to commit and work together. It needs both of you to make the most of the fortunes and the challenges you face. And both partners need to contribute personal resources – as well as the joint ones – to make the relationship happy and healthy.

Not sure what to do for the best?

How to deal with a narcissistic husband Yield: A happier you Active Time: 3 days Total Time: 3 days Difficulty: Easy to tough Rather than labelling your husband or partner as a 'narcissist', I'd like you to think of him as having narcissistic tendencies. That opens the door for you to also see their more lovable characteristics. After all, as human beings, we are all hugely complex and nobody is completely one thing or another. So, here are three steps to helping you address the balance in your relationship: Print Materials Pen and paper Tools A calm state of mind

Self-reflection

Self-love Instructions Here's what to do when you're married to a 'narcissist' Make a list of all their positive attributes

the things your narcissistic husband or partner has contributed to your relationship so far, and what you still love about them.

When you've got to the stage that you need to search the internet, you're likely to feel overwhelmed with hurt, anger and frustration. Therefore I'd really like you to work on that list over the course of a couple of days if necessary. Make a list of behaviours you experience as abusive

Be sure to understand what an abusive relationship precisely entails.

See my articles on the signs of an abusive relationship and how to deal with emotional abuse. Weigh up the two lists against each other

Think carefully about whether or not you want to live the way you do and feel the way you do for another week, month or year. Notes There's no hurry - take your time with the above steps. If possible, discuss each step with someone you really trust and is most likely to be objective. FURTHER HELP I highly recommend you get some extra, paid-for, help if you can afford it. My recommendations are all very user-friendly, professional and cost-effective. To discover how easy it is to get results with self-hypnosis, see: Hypnosis Downloads FAQ. Recommended Products I recommend only carefully chosen resources/products. If you buy something through one of the links, I may earn a commission at NO extra cost to you. A comprehensive relationship or marriage compatibility test

How to Deal With Narcissists

Talk to a professional counsellor

Get help to help you cope with a narcissistic spouse!

You might be lucky enough to be surrounded by supportive friends and family.

If so, talk to them, and listen to their take on your relationship.

If not, and you need some guidance, then I recommend you chat with an expert online relationship coach to get some insight and actionable advice).

A professional will be able to help you work through the issues you’re having right now. And they’ll be able to help you learn how to establish and maintain healthy boundaries so that you won’t find yourself caught in this trap again.

Remember, your mental health is at stake here. Your emotional, mental’ and spiritual well-being can be all too easily undermined by the lack of empathy in your partner.

Their sense of self-importance is likely to drown out your wants, needs and feelings (sometimes called narcissistic abuse).

This can potentially put you at risk of developing other mental ‘illness’ such as depression and anxiety.

Finally

Living- and dealing with a narcissistic husband, wife or partner can be exhausting and confusing.

You may well feel constantly ignored, criticised and unworthy (see my article How to deal with rejection). And that’s not what you deserve, nor is it good for your mental health!

So it’s time to think about whether or not this relationship is really right for you.

Put yourself first (for once!) and take the time to think about what you want – from your partner, yourself, and your life.

Get support if you need help while you’re making your decision. But always remember: you do deserve to be loved, cherished and to feel fulfilled.

Sources

“Study: Men Tend to Be More Narcissistic Than Women.” Why We Create Monsters – UB Reporter, 4 Mar. 2015, www.buffalo.edu/news/releases/2015/03/009.html. Accessed 14 Dec. 2018.

Gilbert, Katie. “The Price of Loving Someone Borderline or Narcissistic.” Psychology Today, 07 Jan. 2016. Web. 27 Nov. 2017.

“Narcissism And The Addiction To Narcissistic Supply.” The Roadshow for Therapists Narcissism And The Addiction To Narcissistic Supply Comments. N.p., n.d. Web. 28 Nov. 2017.