GASLIGHTING DESCRIPTION
AS PER MERRIAM WEBSTER
"Psychological manipulation of a person usually over an extended period of time that causes the victim to question the validity of their own thoughts, perception of reality, or memories and typically leads to confusion, loss of confidence and self-esteem, uncertainty of one's emotional or mental stability, and a dependency on the perpetrator.
Gaslighting can be a very effective tool for the abuser to control an individual. It's done slowly so the victim writes off the event as a one off or oddity and doesn't realize they are being controlled and manipulated."
—Melissa Spino
"Gaslighting can happen in any relationship circumstance, including between friends and family members—not just in couple relationships."
I was watching the news today. There are a group of people who live to gaslight other people to make themselves feel strong! Gaslighting is done by weak people who love to control their spouses, their girlfriend and anyone else they can by gaslighting their friend into thinking they are dumb.
The MAGA election people gaslight everyday by yelling how they plan to take away our healthcare and social security, women’s rights, etc. After a while, I yell, “Go away you evil people”!
Then I remember my mental health therapy. Gaslighting is carried out by weak, egotistical, narcissistic bullies. Walk away, turn the page! Breathe!
The story is concisely edited to a little over 600 words. This comes from my heart because of narcissistic relationships in my life of adventures in this century.
All characters are fictional. There are many folks that have been involved with gaslighting partnerships whether or be romance or friendship.
GASLIGHTING ADVENTURES
‘BOUT TIME BETTY LEFT REESE
In the quaint town of Little Bull, nestled between rolling hills and ancient, beautiful green forests, lived a young woman named Betty. She was known for her kindness and her radiant smile, which could light up even the gloomiest of days. Betty had recently started dating a charming man named Reese, who seemed perfect in every way.
At first, Reese showered Betty with affection and compliments, making her feel like the most special person in the world. However, as time went on, subtle changes began to occur. Reese would make small, seemingly innocent comments that left Betty questioning her own memory and perception.
“Are you sure you locked the door?" he would ask, even though Betty distinctly remembered doing so. "I think you're just being forgetful," he would say with a gentle smile. These moments were fleeting, but they planted seeds of doubt in Betty’s mind.
As the weeks turned into months, Reese’s behavior became more manipulative. He would insist that Betty had said things she hadn’t or deny things he had clearly done. "I never said that" he would claim, leaving Betty feeling confused and disoriented.
Betty’s friends noticed the change in her demeanor. She was no longer the confident, joyful person they once knew. Instead, she seemed anxious and unsure of herself. One evening, her best friend, Becky, decided to confront her.
“Betty, I've noticed something's off. You don't seem like yourself lately. Is everything okay?" Becky asked gently.”
Betty hesitated, tears welling up in her eyes. "I don't know, Becky. I feel like I'm losing my mind. Reese keeps telling me I'm wrong about things, and I don't know what to believe anymore."
Becky took Betty’s hand and squeezed it reassuringly. "You're not losing your mind, Betty. It sounds like Reese is gaslighting you. He's making you doubt your own reality to control you."
With Becky’s support, Betty began to see the truth. She realized that Reese’s behavior was toxic and manipulative. It wasn't easy, but she found the strength to confront him and eventually end the relationship.
As Betty walked away from Reese, she felt a weight lift off her shoulders. She knew it would take time to heal, but she was determined to reclaim her sense of self and trust in her own perceptions once more.
Gaslighting is a seriously significant issue, and it's important to recognize the signs and seek support
WRITTEN BY
VICKI LAWANA TRUSSELLI
COPYRIGHT 2024
TRUSSELLI ART
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