SleuthBee
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@Ladybear There is no need to apologize for the book. It is informative, insightful and a darn good read.In regards to AS not recognizing that his son was being abused by LS; I previously posted my opinion at a professional level from things I have experienced being a Nurse. I unfortunately also have personal experience. I was married to my ex husband for 18 years, he was diagnosed with BPD during our divorce and he was definitely Narcissistic as well.
In my opinion, I don't believe AS just left his children in the care of LS knowing they were possibly being abused.
When you live with someone who BPD or NPD or both its not always explosive and violent. In fact it's scary and confusing how normal things can appear to be most of the time. It's about control for them and being right ALL of the time. It's strange to look back on it now and I often ask myself why I stayed as long as I did. The problem is you learn to adapt. You stop offering your opinion, you do your best not to disagree with them, you do what they want and let them live in a world where they are always right. Your children also learn early on that as long as you don't step out of line there won't be any scary yelling sessions. When the person with the neurosis is in control things can go pretty smoothly and you can function like this for a long time, at least until you grow tired of being stifled and walking on eggshells like I did. My ex husband never physically abused any of us, not even once. But, he did have tantrums and yelled, screamed, threw and broke things etc when he didn't get his way.
Sure, you see things and you know deep down that this person you married needs help. But it's not always obvious abuse or even physical abuse. I honestly believed that he was just strict and I was sensitive for the longest time. Years of this coupled with education and therapy showed me it was not ok.
I filed for a divorce AND that's when the real fun started. In 18 years I had never seen the behavior he exhibited during that time. He did everything possible and I mean EVERYTHING to regain control including a suicide attempt in which I had to do CPR and save his life. That is when he finally got help and a diagnosis. I divorced him and we moved on and he still struggles with angry outbursts when I tell him something he doesn't agree with. I don't know if there is a real fix but he is way better than he used to be and more aware of the consequences of his behavior.
Sorry for the book. I just wanted to share because it's not always cut and dry and I don't think AS saw his children being abused and simply overlooked it. I think she snapped when things started spiraling out of her control. Control is key to these personality types.
Like you, I was in a long term marriage with a diagnosed NPD. And despite my education and professional standing, I was truly unaware of the disorder. You are right, abuse is not always physical, but the gaslighting, the lying and blaming can be worse. The devil in disguise doesn't have horns and carry a pitchfork.
@Ladybear, I am sure this case triggers memories. And I am glad that you have great courage to share your wisdom and help us understand the reality of living with such person. Thank you