Narcissist Behavior Q&A
🙈 They insult and threaten me even in front of the kids
The child standing there absorbs intense fear and hurt too. This can't be waved off as a spat between adults.
The short answer
Shouting and breaking things in front of a child frightens the child too. They may even decide it's their fault.
Scenes like this
- They called you a worthless parent in front of your child.
- They threw things and broke the door even as the child begged them to stop.
How to tell the difference
Adults can disagree in front of a child. A child terrified into playing peacemaker between adults is something else.
When this happens, try this
- Tell your child, "This is not your fault," and stay close if they want you there.
- The moment physical danger or breaking things begins, don't hesitate — get somewhere safe with your child and call 911 immediately.