People are often unaware that they are in a relationship with a narcissist. Most individuals are blinded by love and feel that when a partner is disrespectful, they are just having a bad day.
However, narcissists will manipulate you and make you feel inadequate so that you stay with them because you think they are the best person for you. Many people wonder how to tell whether they’re in a relationship with a narcissist.
The Signs of a Toxic Relationship
It can be hard for people to tell when they are in a harmful relationship because they may care deeply about the person who is causing them pain. Although people may be hurt by a loved one, many enjoyable moments cause them to stay in otherwise toxic relationship. It is important to know that if your partner is a narcissist, you will likely experience negative feelings throughout the relationship.
Fear
Narcissists use fear to control you. They may threaten to vandalize or take your things if you upset them. Through intimidation, narcissists make you feel inclined to blindly listen to them. They manipulate you into thinking that they are the best person for you by lowering your self-esteem.
When a narcissist makes you feel vulnerable and subsequently threatens to leave, you may beg them to stay with you. They cause you to feel like you are unlovable so that they can control you.
Insults
Narcissists will verbally abuse you when you don’t do what they want you to do. They insult you so that you feel like you need to be a better person. Narcissists point out your flaws because they crave to be better than you. They may also control aspects of your relationship such as finances to exercise power over you. Furthermore, narcissists lecture you for putting up with disrespect from others but will treat you badly on a regular basis and think it’s okay. When they compliment you, it may seem like there is an insult underneath what is being said.
Doubt
Narcissists cause you to doubt yourself constantly. They will second guess all your ideas because they want to change who you are and crush your self-esteem so that you stay with them. Moreover, narcissists investigate behind your back because they need to know everything, and they remind you of your mistakes so that you accept what they are doing.
Contact a Family Violence Lawyer
If you or somebody you love is in a relationship with a narcissist, ask for help. It may be difficult to leave the relationship, but it is in your best interest to do so. The attorneys at the Atlanta Divorce Law Group have experience helping people get out of toxic relationships.
Our team is compassionate and will listen to your concerns so that we can help you as much as possible. Call our intake team today to discuss what you can do to get back your power and self-esteem.
