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Gaslighting is a form of emotional abuse that manipulates someone into questioning their own sanity, memories, or perception of reality. It’s a deliberate attempt to erode someone’s confidence and sense of self.
Here are some key points about gaslighting:
Here are some red flags that might indicate you’re being gaslighted:
If you suspect you’re being gaslighted, here are some steps you can take:
Remember, you are not crazy. Gaslighting is a serious form of abuse, and it’s important to seek help if you’re experiencing it. Gaslighting was named the word of the year in 2022 by Merriam-Webster.
Gaslighting is a form of psychological abuse where a person causes someone to question their sanity, memories, or perception of reality. People who experience gaslighting may feel confused, anxious, or unable to trust themselves. The term comes from the name of a 1938 play and 1944 film, “Gaslight,” in which a husband manipulates his wife into thinking she has a mental illness. Gaslighting behaviors include:
Countering: Questioning a person’s memory by saying things like, “Are you sure about that? You have a bad memory.”
Withholding: Pretending not to understand a conversation or refusing to listen, making the person doubt themselves.
Trivializing: Belittling valid concerns by accusing the person of being “too sensitive.”
Denial: Refusing to take responsibility for actions, pretending to forget, or blaming someone else.
Diverting: Changing the focus by questioning credibility, such as dismissing information as “nonsense from the internet.”
Stereotyping: Intentionally using negative stereotypes based on gender, race, ethnicity, etc., to gaslight.
Gaslighting works by breaking down trust in oneself while increasing dependence on the abusive person. Victims may start relying heavily on the perpetrator to recall memories or make decisions. It’s essential to recognize gaslighting and seek help if needed.