I too was unsure of the meaning of gaslighting beyond that depicted in the movie, trying to drive another mad by distorting reality. Trump and his Trumpanzees try it every damned day. If Hitchcock were around today he would say in his imitable way, 'I made a mooovie about what that orange fellow is trying to do.'
Gaslighting is a form of psychological manipulation in which the abuser attempts to sow self-doubt and confusion in their victim's mind. Typically, gaslighters are seeking to gain power and control over the other person, by distorting reality and forcing them to question their own judgment and intuition.
The term “gaslighting” comes from the 1938 play Angel Street, which Alfred Hitchock later adapted into the film Gaslight, in which a man tries to convince his wife that she is going insane so he can steal from her. When he turns on the lights in the attic to search for her jewelry collection, and the gas lights dim downstairs, he tells her it’s all in her imagination. Gradually she begins to question her own memories and perceptions.
Gaslighting typically takes place in abusive relationships like this, and is closely associated with other types of emotional and physical abuse. While gaslighting is most common in romantic relationships, it can also occur within family or workplace relationships.
And here is ChatGPT's take. Could they any more accurately describe Trump and his supporters?
What is gaslighting? (They got the name of the play wrong)
ChatGPT Gaslighting is a form of psychological manipulation in which one person, or a group of people, seeks to undermine another person's perception of reality, making them question their own memory, sanity, or judgment. The term "gaslighting" originates from a 1938 play called "Gas Light," in which a husband attempts to drive his wife insane by making her doubt her own perceptions.
Gaslighting often involves the manipulator engaging in behaviors such as:
Denying: The manipulator denies events or experiences that the victim remembers accurately, causing the victim to doubt their own memory or perception.
Minimizing: The manipulator downplays the victim's feelings, thoughts, or experiences, making them feel insignificant or unworthy of consideration.
Blaming: The manipulator shifts the blame onto the victim, making them believe that they are responsible for the problems or issues at hand.
Withholding information: The manipulator intentionally withholds information, selectively sharing or distorting facts to create confusion or uncertainty.
Twisting reality: The manipulator distorts or reinterprets events, conversations, or situations, often in a way that favors their own perspective or agenda.
Isolating: The manipulator isolates the victim from other sources of support or information, making them more reliant on the manipulator's version of reality.
The goal of gaslighting is to exert control over the victim, making them question their own judgment, memory, and sanity. Over time, the victim may become increasingly dependent on the manipulator and may lose confidence in their own abilities to think and make decisions.
Gaslighting can occur in various relationships, such as romantic partnerships, family dynamics, friendships, or even in larger social or political contexts. It is important to recognize gaslighting behaviors and seek support if you suspect you are being gaslit, as it can have significant negative effects on mental health and well-being.
It most always takes me more than a few visits to get concepts as gaslighting straight in my mind. This one is clearer than some others i've seen:
Gaslighting is a form of psychological manipulation in which the abuser attempts to sow self-doubt and confusion in their victim’s mind. Typically, gaslighters are seeking to gain power and control over the other person, by distorting reality and forcing them to question their own judgment and intuition.https://www.newportinstitute.com/resources/mental-health/what_is_gaslighting_abuse/
Out to bank a fluked bit of slot (poker machine) cash gained yesterday. And a little shopping. Walking takes time, but is good. Thanks for all. And cheers. ;-)
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