How Police Can Identify and Address Narcissistic Abuse Cases

In emergency response situations, being able to recognise the presence of narcissistic abuse could be of vital importance to a police case. But how can police officers both identify and address narcissistic abuse? In this article, we look at the necessity of training police officers to recognise the signs and respond appropriately. 

The psychological impact of narcissistic abuse on victims requires sensitive handling, which is often lacking in current law enforcement. As well as improving communication with victims, there are clear benefits for casework too. By becoming better informed, police officers may be able to make more progress with open case files. Being able to identify the signs of narcissistic abuse could lead to uncovering patterns linked to coercive control.

Narcissistic behaviours are often indicators of an abusive relationship. In some instances, narcissistic abuse could also be subtle and psychological, rather than physical. Therefore, it’s crucial that police understand the signs and patterns associated with narcissism.

Spotting the signs of narcissistic abuse

The Narcissistic Abuse Network (N.A.N) is fully committed to raising awareness of the effects of narcissism through education, talks and training. Our narcissistic abuse courses cover the identification of signs, appropriate response strategies, and ways to communicate with victims. Designed for emergency responders, our courses can prepare police officers to handle complex interpersonal abuse dynamics, both sensitively and effectively.

Our training and education explore the narcissist’s world in terms of how they think and perceive the world around them. By understanding the motivations of a narcissist, we can create strategies to protect and support victims. We also explain how our culture and different environments can influence narcissism.

From the victim’s perspective, we train emergency responders on the signs and symptoms of emotional abuse. By providing an appropriate response, police officers can help to start the recovery process and prevent further damage.

Narcissistic abuse courses

The Narcissistic Abuse Network (N.A.N) provides training to a range of organisations, including emergency response bodies. 

Below are three ways we can provide education, training and talks to your police force:

• Workshops – our interactive 3-hour workshops are limited to 20 attendees with all learning materials provided. We have five different topics, including ‘Narcissists and Narcissism’, ‘All About Victims’ and ‘How Victims Can Protect Against Narcissistic Abuse and Recover’. These courses can be run onsite at your police headquarters. 
• Educational Talks – we can deliver a 20 – 45 minute talk on the toxic impact of narcissism to help you raise awareness in your organisation. Our talks explore how to spot the signs, take action and provide support to victims. On request, we can also bring along a survivor of narcissistic abuse, who can answer your questions.
• Public Speaking – these sessions are ideal for after-dinner speeches, or we can deliver longer TEDX-style talks. Our talks are designed to be thought-provoking and visual, addressing key issues relating to narcissism. 

Our handbook and training aid, Escaping The Void (How to Support Victims Out of Emotionally Abusive Relationships), provides further information.

Please contact us for information on our workshops, educational talks and public speaking. 

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You will also find the following links helpful for understanding narcissism and its impacts on our lives.

SAFETY ONLINE

How to Protect Our Online Activity When Living in an Abusive Relationship

TERMS AND DESCRIPTIONS USED WHEN TALKING ABOUT NARCISSISM

Terminology and Definitions Used When Talking About Narcissism

IDENTIFYING NARCISSISTS

How to Identify The Different Types of Narcissist

How to Spot Narcissists and Narcissism

Quick Quiz: Find Out if You Are Affected by Narcissists or Narcissism

BUILDING YOUR SUPPORT TEAM

How to build an Effective Support System - Strategies for Victims of Narcissistic Abuse

DIVORCING A NARCISSIST

Divorcing a Narcissist - What You Should Know About the Legal System and the Courts