How Narcissists Manipulate Custody Evaluations

Narcissistic Spouses Divorce

man and woman sitting with a legal professional

Jan 13, 2025 | Content

According to Psychology Today, a person with narcissistic tendencies may have an inflated sense of self-importance or lack empathy. These personality traits could make it difficult to get them to agree to an arrangement that does not appease their need for attention and admiration. Learn more about how narcissists manipulate custody evaluations and how that could impact your situation by connecting with our trusted family attorneys.

Playing the Victim

Playing the victim in a divorce case is a common way narcissists manipulate custody evaluations. They are likely to present themselves as the wronged party to the evaluator, typically a court-appointed mental health professional. When interviewed, they may exaggerate their emotional distress or blame you for the issues that ended the relationship. What is even more challenging in Georgia’s family court is that a narcissist often believes their own lies, so getting a truthful testimony may also be difficult.

Smear Campaigns

Narcissists trying to manipulate the outcome of your custody hearing may resort to spreading negative information about you or your friends and family. The overall goal here is to portray you as unfit to care for your child. This tactic may even extend to the kids themselves. Your ex may try to get the children to dislike or distrust you, often by criticizing you in front of them or undermining your authority. The other parent may also resort to guilt-tripping, threats, or promises to look favorable in the eyes of Georgia’s court-appointed custody evaluators.

Unpredictable Communication

Your spouse’s unpredictable communication patterns could also make it very difficult for the evaluator to establish custody and visitation. Because some narcissists may display disdain for others, including the family court system, they may ignore the judge’s orders or fail to appear for hearings. This behavior can delay your dissolution of marriage while creating a sense of instability within the family.

How to Protect Yourself

The best way to keep your narcissistic spouse from manipulating custody evaluations is to remain calm and composed. Getting into emotional arguments with your ex will not help your custody evaluation. Focus on your children and prioritize their well-being during this challenging transition. Keep detailed records of your interactions with your co-parent as evidence to support your claims, and let the evaluator know about your ex-partner’s manipulative behavior.

It is time to consult with an experienced team of family law attorneys who understand the challenges of narcissistic tactics and how to address them. We can develop the strategies you want in Georgia’s family court that shut down this manipulative behavior for a fair and equitable custody agreement.

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How Narcissists Manipulate Custody Evaluations

Playing the Victim

Smear Campaigns

Unpredictable Communication

How to Protect Yourself

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