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Welcome to this enlightening piece on a seldom-discussed topic that affects many relationships today – gaslighting. While the term might sound unfamiliar, the behavior it describes is unfortunately all too common.
Originating from the 1944 film ‘Gaslight‘, it refers to a type of psychological manipulation where a person is made to question their own sanity, memory, or perceptions.
While often associated with romantic relationships, gaslighting can also occur within friendships, making it a pervasive and often overlooked issue.
This article aims to shed light on this subtle form of bullying, helping you recognize its signs, understand its impact, and learn how to protect yourself and maintain a healthy social circle.
Read on to gain a deeper understanding of this invisible form of bullying, and remember, knowledge is power.
By understanding gaslighting, we can equip ourselves better to deal with it and help those around us who might be affected.
So, let’s dive in and uncover the insidious world of gaslighting!
What’s gaslighting?
When you think about bullying, you might picture physical confrontations or public humiliation. However, there’s a more subtle form of manipulation that can be just as damaging – gaslighting.
The term gaslighting originated from the 1944 film ‘Gaslight’, where a man manipulated his wife into believing she was going insane.
In today’s context, it refers to psychological manipulation to make someone question their own sanity, memory, or perceptions.
Gaslighting in friends’ circles
Often, we think of gaslighting in the context of abusive romantic relationships. But it is essential to recognize that such manipulation can also exist within friends’ circles.
Friends who gaslight may use tactics such as dismissing your feelings, denying events ever occurred, or subtly shifting blame onto you.
Spotting the signs of gaslighting
Gaslighting can be subtle and manipulative, making it difficult to identify. Some signs to watch out for include feeling constantly second-guessed, being made to feel overly sensitive, or feeling like you’re always in the wrong.
For instance, a friend who is gaslighting you might consistently deny saying hurtful remarks, making you question your own memory or judgement.
Impact of gaslighting
The impact of gaslighting on a person’s mental health can be severe. It can lead to feelings of confusion, anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem.
In extreme cases, it can even make someone question their own reality. It’s the equivalent of an invisible bully that slowly wears you down emotionally and mentally.
How to deal with gaslighting
If you believe you’re being gaslighted in your friends’ circle, it’s essential to take steps to protect yourself.
Firstly, trust your feelings and perceptions. If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t.
Secondly, seek support from trusted friends or family members who can validate your feelings.
Lastly, consider seeking professional help, such as therapy, to navigate your feelings and decide the best course of action.
Gaslighting is a form of psychological manipulation that can occur in any relationship, including friends’ circles.
Being aware of this form of bullying is the first step towards protecting oneself and maintaining a healthy social circle. Remember, everyone deserves friendships that are built on respect, honesty, and mutual trust.
Did this article help you understand gaslighting better? If yes, don’t hesitate to share it on your social networks to help others become aware of this invisible bully within friends’ circles.
