Gaslighting is much more dangerous than it might seem at first glance. This form of psychological manipulation gradually undermines your confidence in yourself and challenges your perception of reality. What does gaslighting mean, how do you recognize it in a relationship – and how to effectively defend against it?
Gaslighting is a subtle form of psychological manipulation and emotional abuse that tries to distort your perception of reality. The manipulator convinces you that your own memories and feelings are not real or valid. He repeatedly denies your experience, tries to confuse and humiliate you.
The origin and essence of gaslighting
Source: Youtube
The term “gaslighting” is derived from the 1940s movie “Gaslight,” in which a husband manipulates his wife into making her feel bad about herself and lose confidence in her perception of reality.
In the film, he affects the gas lighting and convinces her that the intensity of the light does not change in any way. This form of manipulation begins subtly at first, but gradually grows into a long-term and systematic distortion of reality.
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Gaslighting is a dangerous form of manipulation
The manipulator’s goals and the consequences for the victim
The manipulator tries to gain power and control over you, often because of his own low self-esteem and the need to compensate for his own shortcomings. Manipulators aim to undermine your self-confidence and self-confidence so that they feel more powerful and in control of you. The consequences for the victim can be devastating, including loss of self-esteem, feeling confused and unable to make decisions.
How to recognize gaslighting in a relationship
Gaslighting is often difficult to recognize because the manipulators use sophisticated tactics to disguise their manipulation. However, there are warning signs that you should take seriously, including repeated arguments, questioning of your feelings and memories, and shifting the blame onto you.
How to resist gaslighting
The main defenses against gaslighting are maintaining strong boundaries, trusting your own feelings and memories, and seeking support from friends and family. It is important not to be manipulated, but also to seek help if you are threatened or confused.
Gaslighting at work and in society
Gaslighting manipulation is also often found in work and social relationships, where it can be aimed at deliberately avoiding responsibility, placing blame on others, or gaining control over others. It is important to be aware of these tactics and actively resist them.
Source: thehotline.org, medicalnewstoday.com, verywellmind.com
