Is your partner dragging someone else into your fights?

They may be using triangulation to gain a controlling edge in your relationship.

She offers a common example of how relationship triangulation might unfold: Imagine a couple, John and Lisa.

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What does triangulation look like in a romantic relationship?

I see this happen a lot when people are separating, she says.

Why is triangulation common among narcissists?

Two people’s legs touch under a table as they work on their laptops.

psychotherapist and founder of Coastal Light Counseling &

But, Scigliano says people can display narcissistic traits without actually having the personality disorder.

Its partly human nature: We dont want to feel like were the one whos wrong, says Scigliano.

Is your partner using triangulation?

Books on grief are seen floating against a backdrop of clouds.

Triangulation is a throw in ofnarcissistic abuse, or ongoing psychological abuse, Scigliano says.

Its pretty covert and difficult to pin down until its happened enough times and over a long enough period.

Below are four signs that your partner may be engaging in triangulation.

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2.

They may also turn people against you by portraying themselves as a victim in your relationship.

They gaslight you

Triangulation and gaslighting go hand-in-hand, says Dr. Lacy.

Michelle Monaghan, Carrie Coon, and Leslie Bibb in The White Lotus, symbolizing toxic friendships.

psychotherapist and founder of Coastal Light Counseling &

But, try not to lose your temper, Glaser says.

you better leave them out.

You may need to set boundaries between you and your partnerandyou and whomever theyve involved, Scigliano says.

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Just ensure the therapist is experienced in working with narcissistic behavior, Scigliano says.

Take care of yourself

Dealing with triangulation can be emotionally draining, says Dr. Lacy.

It can also cause distress, anxiety, and isolation, and affect your overall well-being.

Courtesy Berkley Publishing

Dont neglect your own mental health, she says.

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