04/09/2026
Sadly, one of the most difficult things about dealing with narcissistic behaviour is that the person displaying it may never recognise it in themselves.
They may genuinely believe that the problem is everyone else.
You can explain.
You can provide evidence.
You can calmly point out the contradictions.
You can try to reason with them.
You can show them how their behaviour affects others.
But when someone lacks the willingness or capacity to self-reflect, no amount of explaining will necessarily get through.
The constant need for admiration, sense of entitlement, lack of empathy, manipulation, arrogance and fragile self-esteem can create a cycle where accountability is always avoided and blame is shifted onto someone else.
And that can be incredibly frustrating, particularly in relationships and during divorce.
Sometimes the most important realisation is this:
You don’t have to convince someone that they are hurting you in order to take steps to protect your own peace.
You cannot control whether someone acknowledges their behaviour.
You can control how you respond to it, what boundaries you set, and how much access they have to your emotional energy.
Knowledge, boundaries and appropriate professional support can make all the difference.
Van Rooyen Attorneys & Mediators
Family Law • Divorce • Mediation • Parenting Matters
www.vanrooyenattorneys.co.za
