Are you a gaslighter?

What is gas lighting?

Gaslighting is a form of psychological manipulation in which a person or a group of people subtly or overtly manipulates someone else's perception of reality. The term "gaslighting" originated from a play called "Gas Light" and later a movie adaptation, both of which portrayed a husband who manipulated his wife into believing she was going insane by dimming the gas lights in their home.

In the context of psychological manipulation, gaslighting typically involves tactics such as:

1. Denial: The gaslighter may deny certain events or experiences, making the victim doubt their own memory or perception of reality.

2. Discrediting: Gaslighters may undermine the victim's credibility or make them doubt their own abilities, making them feel inadequate or incapable.

3. Withholding information: Gaslighters may deliberately withhold information or selectively provide it, causing confusion and making the victim rely on them for clarification.

4. Shifting blame: Gaslighters may shift the blame onto the victim, making them feel guilty or responsible for the gaslighter's actions or behavior.

5. Manipulative behaviors: Gaslighters may engage in manipulative behaviors, such as creating doubt, sowing seeds of confusion, or subtly coercing the victim to question their own reality.

Gaslighting can occur in various contexts, including personal relationships, workplace settings, or even in larger societal or political environments. The aim is to undermine the victim's confidence, control their behavior, and maintain power over them.

It's important to recognize gaslighting behaviors and, if experiencing them, seek support from trusted friends, family, or professionals.