Gaslighting
Gaslighting is a term that has gained significant attention in recent years, particularly in discussions surrounding mental health, relationships, and emotional abuse. Understanding what gaslighting is and how it manifests can empower individuals to recognize and confront this harmful behavior.
What is Gaslighting?
Gaslighting is a psychological manipulation tactic where an individual seeks to make another person doubt their perceptions, memories, or understanding of events. The term originates from the 1944 movie “Gaslight,” where a husband manipulates his wife into believing she is going insane. This form of emotional abuse can be subtle and insidious, often leaving the victim feeling confused, anxious, and unable to trust their own judgment.
Signs of Gaslighting
- Constant Denial: The gaslighter frequently denies or contradicts facts that the victim knows to be true. This creates self-doubt and confusion.
- Trivializing Feelings: The gaslighter dismisses the victim’s feelings as unimportant or irrational, making them feel invalid and unsupported.
- Projection: Gaslighters often project their own negative behaviors onto the victim, accusing them of being manipulative or dishonest.
