Abuse & Gaslighting: forms of psychological violence
Intro
Gaslighting is a form of emotional abuse where a person or group makes someone question their sanity, perception of reality, or memories. The term comes from the 1938 play (and 1944 film adaptation) "Gas Light," where a husband manipulates his wife into believing she's losing her mind. People experiencing gaslighting often feel confused, anxious, and unable to trust themselves.
Article
Gaslighting is a form of emotional abuse where a person or group makes someone question their sanity, perception of reality, or memories. The term comes from the 1938 play (and 1944 film adaptation) "Gas Light," where a husband manipulates his wife into believing she's losing her mind. People experiencing gaslighting often feel confused, anxious, and unable to trust themselves.
Gaslighting techniques include:
- Countering: The abusive person questions the victim's memory of events, even when the victim remembers them accurately.
- Withholding: The abuser pretends not to understand or refuses to listen to the victim's concerns.
- Trivializing: The abuser makes the victim's needs or feelings seem unimportant.
- Denial: The abuser pretends to have forgotten what actually occurred or denies things like promises that have been made.
Another form of psychological abuse is Emotional Abuse, which can be subtle but is incredibly harmful. This might include manipulation, belittling, constant criticism, humiliation, and dismissiveness of a person's feelings. It can leave deep psychological scars and lead to conditions like anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder.
Physical Abuse involves causing physical harm or injury to someone, such as hitting, slapping, or choking.
Sexual Abuse involves forcing someone into unwanted sexual activities, even within a marriage or dating relationship. It is important to note that consent must be freely given, can be withdrawn at any time, and that past consent does not constitute future consent.
Remember, it's essential to seek help if you're experiencing any form of abuse. You don't have to deal with this alone. Many organizations offer support, including counseling and legal services, to those dealing with abuse.
