When a couple seeks a divorce, they will have to handle complex child care agreements such as child custody, child support, and child visitation schedule orders. Regardless of the circumstances, co-parenting is extremely complex and challenging. However, it can be substantially more challenging when co-parenting with someone who has narcissistic traits or narcissistic personality disorder (NPD). Individuals with NPD or narcissistic traits make co-parenting difficult as they have a hard time understanding or caring about the feelings of others. They have an inflated sense of self which causes them to have trouble putting their child’s needs first. If you are having trouble co-parenting with someone with narcissistic traits or NPD, contact an experienced Rockland County Child Visitation Attorney who can help you coordinate a successful parenting schedule.

What are the difficulties of co-parenting with a narcissist?

Co-parenting with a narcissist is challenging. However, it is not impossible. It is imperative for parents to make an effort to co-parent as poorly executed co-parenting can have long-term negative effects on the child’s overall well-being. Narcissistic individuals are difficult to co-parent with as they often prioritize their own needs over their children’s. Unfortunately, this may mean they neglect to have empathy or care about their children’s essential needs and well-being. Children need comfort and stability in their lives. However, a child’s routine may be disrupted if a narcissistic individual refuses to be flexible or repeatedly changes or cancels their parenting schedule. Co-parenting with a narcissist is difficult, but parents must be able to cope with the situation and navigate it to ensure their child’s well-being. This means understanding their behavior and finding ways to make it work. Narcissistic individuals have a hard time taking constructive criticism which can cause conflict between parents. Additionally, narcissistic individuals may try to manipulate their child into taking sides. Ultimately, it is important for individuals to understand narcissistic behavior in order to better handle the way they co-parent to ensure their child’s welfare.

What are some examples of narcissistic traits?

An individual with narcissistic personality traits may not have NPD. However, individuals who do not have NPD can still exhibit narcissistic personality traits that make co-parenting seem impossible. The following are some examples of narcissistic personality traits:

  • Inflated ego
  • Lack of empathy
  • Need attention
  • Few boundaries
  • Strongly believe that they are superior to others
  • Entitlement
  • Pattern of using manipulation tactics
  • Habit of exploiting others
  • Assumption that others must be envious of them

Why should I consult an attorney?

Creating a successful parenting plan can be extremely challenging when one parent exhibits narcissistic traits or has NPD. Although it is challenging, it is not impossible to co-parent with someone who has NPD or narcissistic traits. A skilled Rockland County child visitation attorney can help parents reach a mutual legal agreement on a parenting schedule that makes the child’s best interests a priority. A successful co-parenting schedule will account for the following:

  • Religion
  • Education
  • Holidays
  • Visitation
  • Child care expenses
  • Medical care decisions

If you are co-parenting with someone who exhibits narcissistic behavior or NPD, please don’t hesitate to reach out to one of our trusted attorneys who can help you create a visitation plan that is best for your child. Allow our firm to help you today.