It's nice to think of a 'them' and 'us', where we're right and they're wrong, they're unreasonable and we are the picture of calm and mental health.
Oddly enough, bipolar disorder is more widely diagnosed because new medicines can benefit finer and finer degrees of that disorder. Before only the huge swings of 'manic/depression' could be managed, if that. Now with medication and therapy folks can take control and move past the negative aspects of the disorder.
Narcissism tends to be an ingrained trait where traditional methods of treatment do not work. And based on this disorder, folks are highly unlikely to seek the integrated therapeutic approaches because of their subconscious fears.
To me, the difference comes down in seeking treatment and doing what it takes to get healthy. And I think core fears surface with both parties with a sense of entitlement kicking in.
I think the words 'selfish', 'sense of entitlement', 'revenge' along with many others come to mind. And in the end, the person who wants out most (to protect the children, save whatever assets are left) capitulate to finish the process.
Divorce is emotionally and financially devastating for all involved, the couple, kids, extended family, close friends.
I figure I tried to do the best job possible (which many times faltered) without intentionally inflicting harm. Perhaps I was too nice.. but that's a learning curve too.
And, I'm posting because I hate those sweeping generalizations, even when nasty behavior warrants those terms.
Someone recently told me, be wise as serpents, harmless as doves. I have yet to accomplish that.
Smile Guy.. I'm sorry you and your kids have to go through your divorcing spouse's asinine and irrational behavior. Are you seeking additional legal counsel? Only you know what will work for you.
