Emotional gaslighting is a form of psychological manipulation and emotional abuse where one person seeks to make another doubt their own feelings, perceptions, memories, and overall reality. The term "gaslighting" originated from a 1938 play called "Gas Light" and later became a widely used term after the release of the 1944 film adaptation.
In emotional gaslighting, the manipulator uses various tactics to undermine the victim's confidence in their emotions and judgment. Some common techniques used in emotional gaslighting include:
Denial: The manipulator denies the victim's experiences or emotions, making them question the validity of their feelings.
Minimization: The manipulator downplays the significance of the victim's emotions, making them feel that their feelings are unwarranted or exaggerated.
Blaming: The manipulator shifts blame onto the victim, making them feel responsible for the manipulator's behavior or actions.
Contradiction: The manipulator contradicts the victim's version of events or past conversations, causing confusion and self-doubt.
Invalidating: The manipulator dismisses the victim's emotions as being irrational or crazy, leading the victim to feel unheard and misunderstood.
Diverting: The manipulator changes the subject or redirects the conversation when the victim tries to address their concerns or emotions.
Withholding: The manipulator refuses to engage in discussions or provide emotional support, leaving the victim feeling isolated and rejected.
The ultimate goal of emotional gaslighting is to gain control and power over the victim by undermining their self-confidence and ability to trust their own feelings and perceptions. This can lead to emotional turmoil, anxiety, depression, and a sense of powerlessness in the victim.
Recognizing emotional gaslighting is crucial in protecting oneself from such harmful behavior. If you suspect that you are experiencing emotional gaslighting in any relationship, seeking support from friends, family, or a mental health professional can help you regain perspective and establish healthier boundaries.