Gaslighting is defined as which of the following?

• A. A physical act of violence
• B. A manipulation tactic used by the abuser to make the victim doubt their reality and feelings
• C. A legal case
• D. A medical diagnosis

Answer: (B)

Gaslighting is a manipulation tactic used by an abuser to make the victim doubt their own reality and feelings. This psychological abuse involves denying or twisting facts, questioning the victim’s memory, and minimizing or invalidating their emotions. The goal is to erode the person’s confidence in their own perceptions, memories, and judgment, so they become increasingly dependent on the abuser.

This fits the concept because gaslighting centers on manipulating perception rather than inflicting a physical act, pursuing a legal matter, or labeling someone with a medical diagnosis. For example, an abuser might insist that a hurtful event never happened or that the victim is overreacting, even when the event is real, leading the victim to doubt themselves.

If you notice patterns like persistent denial of reality, constant questioning of your memory, or feeling more uncertain about your own thoughts and feelings after interacting with someone, that points to gaslighting. Recognizing it helps you seek support, validate your experiences, and set boundaries.