Contributed from another discussion on CEI message board.
Quote
Gaslighting is often misunderstood, but plenty of literature on it:
www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/here-there-and-everywhere/201701/11-warning-signs-gaslighting%3famp
"How do you know if you're being gaslighted?
How do you know if you are being gaslighted? If any of the following warning signs ring true, you may be dancing the Gaslight Tango. Take care of yourself by taking another look at your relationship, talking to a trusted friend; and, begin to think about changing the dynamic of your relationship . Here are the signs:
1. You are constantly second-guessing yourself
2. You ask yourself, "Am I too sensitive?" a dozen times a day.
3. You often feel confused and even crazy at work. (Corboy or after sessions with an abusive therapist or spiritual coach)
4. You're always apologizing.
5. You can't understand why, with so many apparently good things in your life, you aren't happier.
6. You frequently make excuses for your partner's behavior to friends and family.
7. You find yourself withholding information from friends and family so you don't have to explain or make excuses.
8. You know something is terribly wrong, but you can never quite express what it is, even to yourself.
9. You start lying to avoid the put downs and reality twists.
10. You have trouble making simple decisions.
11. You have the sense that you used to be a very different person - more confident, more fun-loving, more relaxed.
(Corboy note: You used to be interested in lots more things, you used to DO things, try things out. Or you know you once had more energy, had more fun, were more venturesome, in the past you didnt have trouble leaving the house, did not have trouble going out at night to enjoy a movie or event, you used to dress up, used to be more active and athletic and now no longer are that way.
12. You feel hopeless and joyless.
13. You feel as though you can't do anything right.
14. You wonder if you are a "good enough" girlfriend/ wife/employee/ friend; daughter.
15. You find yourself withholding information from friends and family so you don't have to explain or make excuses"