Gaslighting
Version 1.0.0 · Updated 2026-07-30
CORE DEFINITION
A psychological manipulation tactic. The manipulator, through persistent denial, questioning of the victim's memory, perception, or sanity (e.g., "You're misremembering," "You're too sensitive," "I never said that"), gradually causes the victim to doubt their own cognitive abilities, ultimately making them completely dependent on the manipulator.
SCAFFOLDING EFFECT
Reduce cognitive load
Identification of cognitive bullying. If you find yourself frequently questioning "Am I going crazy?" or "Am I too stupid?" in a relationship (workplace or romantic), be wary of gaslighting. The countermeasure is to trust records (recordings, emails, diaries) over the other person's words, and seek third-party verification (reality check).
Anchor fast decisions
A psychological manipulation: the manipulator, by denying facts, distorting memories, and questioning the victim's perceptions, gradually causes the victim to doubt their own sanity and judgment, thereby achieving control over reality.
MINIMUM ACTION
In progress 0/4Practice this model in one real situation:
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Source support: Explicit
- en.wikipedia.orghttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gaslightingverified
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