What is Gaslighting in a Relationship? Here are 10 Examples | By Mat Boggs
# Gaslighting: Recognizing and Dealing with Manipulation in Relationships
Gaslighting is unfortunately becoming a common tactic in today’s dating sphere, causing confusion and emotional harm in relationships. It is important to understand what gaslighting is and how to recognize it in order to maintain healthy relationships.
## What is Gaslighting?
Gaslighting is a specific manipulation tactic used by individuals to make their partner doubt their perception, memory, and sanity. It is a calculated move to gain control in a relationship by causing the other person to question their own reality. There are several forms of gaslighting that can occur in relationships:
### Denial of Facts
One common form of gaslighting is when a person denies saying or doing something, despite clear evidence proving otherwise. This tactic can make the other person doubt their memory and sanity, leading to confusion and self-doubt.
### Blaming and Twisting Words
Another form of gaslighting involves twisting the situation around to make the victim feel at fault. The manipulator may blame the victim for overreacting or being too sensitive, deflecting responsibility for their own actions.
### Questioning Reality
Gaslighting can also involve making the victim feel like they are going crazy by questioning their memory and perception of reality. This tactic is designed to make the victim doubt themselves and rely on the manipulator for validation.
### Creating Doubt with External Validation
In some cases, gaslighters may use the opinions of others to make the victim doubt themselves. By aligning others’ opinions against the victim, the gaslighter can isolate them and make them feel unreasonable.
## How to Deal with Gaslighting
If you suspect that you are being gaslighted in a relationship, it is important to take action to protect yourself and maintain your mental health. Here are five tips to help you navigate a gaslighting situation:
1. Trust your instincts and intuition. If something feels off in the relationship, listen to your gut and acknowledge the possibility of manipulation.
2. Keep a journal to document events and conversations, providing a tangible record to refer back to when gaslighting occurs.
3. Maintain healthy boundaries and assert your right to your feelings and perceptions, regardless of external opinions.
Gaslighting is a harmful manipulation tactic that can have long-lasting effects on a person’s mental well-being. By recognizing the signs of gaslighting and taking steps to protect yourself, you can create a healthier and more supportive relationship environment.
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