| The current study was undertaken to examine the relationship between narcissism, family functioning, and divorce mediation outcome. It was hypothesized that higher levels of trait narcissism and low cohesion and adaptability would predict poorer mediation outcome. This was expected due to the narcissist being unable to reach the best interest of the child and the tenacity of lower family functioning. Participants were 40 mothers and 40 fathers entering divorce mediation through Family Court Services. Each parent responded to self-report measures, including: a demographic questionnaire, the Narcissistic Personality Inventory (NPI), the Family Adaptability and Cohesion Evaluation Scale (FACES II), and the Client Assessment of Mediation Services (CAMS). The mediators provided a measure of each participant's outcome in the mediation in the form of percent of child related issues resolved. A prospective correlational design was utilized in which mediation outcome served as the outcome variable and narcissism and family functioning as the predictors. In contrast to what was predicted, mothers who scored higher on the NPI, particularly the subscale of self-sufficiency, had a better outcome in the mediation, as rated by the mediators. These findings were not replicated for fathers. Similarly, family functioning was not predictive of divorce mediation outcome. Discussion focused on the functional aspects of the mothers' self-sufficiency. The gender differences are discussed in light of developmental differences and manifestation of narcissism in men and women. The restricted range of scores on the FACES II is offered as a reason for the lack of relationship between family functioning and outcome. Limitations of measurement and design are discussed as well as implications for mediation within the Family Courts. Possible fruitful areas of future research are presented. |
