Gaslighting has become a popular term in recent years, one typically used to refer to a toxic relational strategy employed by narcissists. The goal of gaslighting is to make one’s partner doubt, and ultimately disengage from, his or her own thoughts, perceptions, feelings, and convictions. A variety of tactics are generally considered to comprise gaslighting. As these and other forms of manipulation gradually weaken the partner’s boundaries and self-esteem, the narcissist becomes more and more empowered. Although popular culture portrays gaslighting as something one person does to another, it is not simply that. Instead, the circumstances must be right for a psychology to emerge between two persons that allows for gaslighting to actually work. The receptivity to being gaslighted is a major component of relationships with these types of power dysfunction, but unfortunately one that is seldom explored. In the next virtual meeting of the Relationship Group Seminar on Saturday, December 4, 2021 (11:45 AM to 1:00 PM), we will discuss the psychology of gaslighting. The vulnerability to and inevitable loss of self-trust when you have been the victim of gaslighting, and common barriers to overcoming gaslighting, will be emphasized.

*Registration Directions: If you would like to attend the next virtual meeting of the Relationship Group Seminar on Saturday, December 4, 2021, 11:45 AM to 1:00 PM, please RSVP to me at 949-338-4388 or jt@jamestobinphd.com no later than Thursday, December 2, 2021. The fee is $25.00 (payable before entering the virtual meeting) and informed consent for participation in this telehealth event must be completed prior to the seminar. Please note that the Relationship Group Seminar is psychoeducational in nature, not therapeutic, and does not constitute psychotherapy or counseling.