Gaslighting is a form of psychological manipulation in which a person seeks to make someone else doubt their own reality, memory, or perceptions. If you were subjected to denial, minimization, blame-shifting, isolation, withholding, criticism, projection, or narcissism, you may have fallen victim to gaslighting.
Unfortunately, most employers lack individuals within their organization who possess the capability to address these malicious tactics. As a result, the company culture deteriorates, causing employees to experience burnout and leaving them with no choice but to depart from a highly toxic workplace.
By clarifying some of these behaviors, you will be able to identify them more quickly and seek professional help if necessary.
- Denying or downplaying one’s actions: The gaslighter may deny that they said or did something, even if there is evidence to the contrary. They might also minimize the significance of their actions.
- Trivializing concerns: Gaslighters often belittle the victim’s feelings by dismissing their concerns as irrational or unimportant.
- Projection: Gaslighters may accuse the victim of the very behaviors they are exhibiting. For example, if they are lying, they may accuse the victim of being dishonest.
- Withholding information: Gaslighters may withhold information or facts to keep the victim in the dark and maintain control.
- Shifting blame: Gaslighters may shift the blame for their actions onto the victim, making the victim feel responsible for the gaslighter’s behavior.
- Isolation: Gaslighters may isolate the victim from coworkers and managers, making them more dependent on the gaslighter for validation and support.
The ultimate goal of gaslighting is to undermine the victim’s confidence in their own perceptions and judgment, making them more susceptible to the gaslighter’s control and manipulation. Gaslighting can occur in various contexts, including personal relationships, workplaces, and even in the realm of politics and propaganda.
It’s important to recognize the signs of gaslighting and seek support if you believe you are a victim. Gaslighting is a form of emotional abuse and can have serious and lasting psychological effects on those who experience it.
Please feel free to contact us if this issue has been affecting you or your team.