Lately, there has been a lot of talks about “Karens” in the media. I was completely lost until it was explained to me. Many of you may be married to a “Karen” without even knowing it!
The Karen meme started a couple of years ago about entitled mothers and their demanding behavior at the expense of others. A Karen is a woman who is never happy with her meal or the service and demands to speak to the manager. A Karen may push her beliefs and world standards on others, even if it means demeaning or endangering others around her. A Karen acts selfish in a way that is unnecessary and unacceptable in everyday situations with others. Does this describe anyone you know?
Please do not think this only applies to women! I have run into many men with this “Karen” attitude, which is a borderline personality disorder. Some of the traits of borderline personality include:
- Intense mood swings
- Paranoia
- Intense or uncontrollable anger
- Impulsive behavior
- Hording
- Self-image issues
A Karen – or a Ken – will turn in a minute from happy to outrage for something inconsequential. You may be tired of the name calling and lying about you to family and friends. A Karen does not have to beat you down – fight for yourself and custody of your children. From my experience, your divorce is likely to be difficult if you are married to a Karen, but remember, there is life after divorce!
Alanna C. Williams is a partner in the Fairfax Firm of Cook Craig & Francuzenko PLLC. Her practice focuses on domestic relations and family law. You can connect with her on Linkedin (https://www.linkedin.com/in/alanna-williams-bb57b23/)
