The Financial Games Narcissists Play During Divorce (and How To Protect Yourself)

Narcissistic Spouses

Apr 25, 2025 | Content

During divorce, narcissists often employ manipulative tactics to exert control and cause distress. Their tactics may include financial manipulation aimed at maintaining power and inflicting emotional harm.

This can involve hiding assets, creating financial double standards, refusing to engage in negotiations, and dragging out the divorce process to hold onto their control. A skilled divorce attorney can proactively protect your interests by taking steps to safeguard your finances, property, and children from narcissistic abuse or manipulation.

The Financial Games Narcissists Play in Divorce Proceedings

Narcissists often employ manipulative financial tactics during divorce, including withholding information and using financial resources to control the other spouse. They may also engage in emotional blackmail or gaslighting to exert their influence over the divorce proceedings. For example, the narcissist may attempt to portray themselves as the victim and the other spouse as the financial problem to influence the other spouse to agree to less favorable terms.

Narcissists may deliberately refuse to share information about assets, income, or debts during financial settlements, making it difficult for their partner to understand the true financial picture. They might rack up debts during the divorce process to create financial pressure or manipulate the situation to their advantage. They might even spend lavishly on themselves or others while criticizing the other spouse’s spending habits, creating a sense of unfairness and control.

A narcissist frequently tries to use money as a means to control or punish their spouse, engaging in mind games or stonewalling negotiations and making it difficult to reach an agreement. An experienced divorce attorney can be a valuable asset when dealing with a narcissist in a divorce. They can help you understand your legal options, set boundaries, document financial evidence, and strategize to protect yourself from manipulative tactics.

How To Protect Yourself From a Narcissist During Divorce

It is vital to set clear limits on communication and interactions with your narcissistic spouse and enforce them consistently. This helps prevent manipulation and emotional abuse. Keep detailed records of all communications, including texts, emails, and notes from interactions. This documentation is crucial for building a strong case and countering their narratives.

Engage in activities that promote your well-being, such as exercise, meditation, or spending time with loved ones. Maintain your composure and do not internalize their accusations. Minimize direct communication with your ex, especially if it is likely to escalate into arguments.

A lawyer experienced in divorce cases involving narcissists can navigate the legal complexities and protect your financial interests. An attorney can act as a communication intermediary, handling all interactions on your behalf, creating a protective barrier between you and a controlling ex.

Your lawyer can act as your advocate in all stages of your case to limit direct contact. An attorney can also collect direct evidence of the narcissist’s behaviors, including manipulative tactics, lies, and any evidence of financial manipulation, to present during settlement negotiations.

Work With a Skilled Attorney To Protect Your Finances During Divorce

Narcissists play financial games during divorce, and you need to protect yourself. They may be dishonest about their assets to prevent their ex-spouse from receiving what they are entitled to. This can involve concealing bank accounts, investments, or other property. They may refuse to share financial information, making it difficult for their ex-spouse to understand their financial position or to reach a fair settlement.

An attorney can help you navigate the emotional and legal complexities of divorcing a narcissist while protecting your financial interests and seeking the most successful outcome possible. Contact the Atlanta Divorce Law Group today and request your free case consultation with a member of our intake team.

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The Financial Games Narcissists Play During Divorce (and How To Protect Yourself)

The Financial Games Narcissists Play in Divorce Proceedings

How To Protect Yourself From a Narcissist During Divorce

Work With a Skilled Attorney To Protect Your Finances During Divorce

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