Gaslighting is a manipulative tactic used to gain power and control over someone else by making them doubt their own reality and perception of events. The term originates from a play and movie called ''Gas Light,'' where a husband manipulates his wife into thinking that she's going crazy. In popular use, the term refers to when someone deliberately tries to confuse and undermine another person's sense of reality to control, dominate, or manipulate that individual.
When to use it
People use the term 'gaslighting' when someone manipulates another person into doubting their own thoughts, feelings, and memories, causing them to question reality. It is often used to describe emotional abuse and confusing behavior intended to make someone feel crazy or doubt their own perception of reality. People may use 'gaslighting' to describe a manipulative partner, a toxic boss, or a political figure deliberately spreading misinformation.
Example sentences
- She suspected her partner of gaslighting her, but wasn't quite certain.
- The gaslighting behavior was making her doubt her sanity.
- Gaslighting is a manipulation tactic used to make someone feel crazy.
- He was skilled at gaslighting her into thinking she was overreacting.
- The gaslighting made her feel like she couldn't trust her own perceptions.
- Gaslighting can be incredibly damaging to a person's mental health.
- Her therapist helped her see through the gaslighting tactics her abuser was using.
- She began to recognize the gaslighting when she noticed inconsistencies in her partner's stories.
- Gaslighting is a form of emotional abuse that can occur in any type of relationship.
- It's important to educate ourselves on gaslighting and other forms of abuse to protect ourselves and others.
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