what is gaslighting in a relationship

Gaslighting is a form of emotional abuse in relationships where one person manipulates their partner into doubting their own perceptions, experiences, memories, and even sanity. The gaslighter presents their own thoughts and feelings as the truth, and convinces their partner that they are remembering things wrong or misinterpreting events. Gaslighting can occur in minor incidents, making it hard to notice there’s a problem at all, especially in a relationship where the victim trusts their partner. It can happen in any kind of relationship where one person is so important to the other that they don’t want to take the chance of upsetting or losing them, such as a boss, friend, sibling, or parent. Gaslighting is a common form of abuse in unhealthy relationships and is often associated with other types of emotional and physical abuse. It can cause incredible stress and lead to mental health issues. Some signs of gaslighting in a relationship include minimizing hurtful behaviors or words, denying things that were said or done, and separating the victim from friends and family who might recognize the abuse.