Gaslighting: The 1938 Drama That Mirrored My 21st Century Reality

Gaslighting: When Reality Becomes a Mirage

Gaslighting, a term that’s been thrown around quite a bit lately, is a sinister form of emotional warfare. It’s a strategy that messes with a person’s grasp on reality. Whether it’s through coercive tactics, blatant lies, shifting blame, or undermining one’s memories, the goal is clear: to gain control.

Here at Mom Versus The World, we’re not just about sharing stories; we’re about empowering our readers with knowledge. Let’s dive deep into the shadows of gaslighting, shedding light on its tactics and offering guidance on how to navigate its murky waters.

Gaslighting: The Classic ‘It’s Not Me, It’s You’s Origin Story

Ever heard of the 1938 British play Gas Light? No? Well, let me enlighten you (pun intended). Our dear friend Patrick Hamilton penned this gem, which later got the Hollywood treatment not once but twice! The 1944 American version is our main culprit for coining the term ‘gaslighting’. The plot? A sneaky husband dims the gas lights (get it?) to mess with his wife’s head, all while plotting to snatch her riches. Classic, right? It’s like the OG guidebook for narcissists on how to be the worst partner ever. Why? Apparently, making someone question their sanity is a fun pastime for some.

Like ‘Dimming the Lights’ To Change One’s Perception

Gaslighting is like a puppeteer pulling strings, making the victim dance to their tune. It’s a manipulative tactic designed to make the victim question their memories, perceptions, and even their sanity. The end game? To shift the power dynamics in favor of the puppeteer.

While this tactic can be found in various relationships—family, work, or romantic—it’s crucial to remember that it’s not just the domain of narcissists. Anyone can be a victim or a perpetrator.

The Irony of Seeking Autonomy

Isn’t it ironic? The moment I chose to steer my life’s ship, I was branded a “control freak.” But here’s a revelation: seeking control over one’s destiny isn’t about domineering; it’s about claiming a fundamental human right.

Recalling those labels, I’m transported back to times when he tried to fit me into his mold. Remembering his offhand comments about my appearance or his critiques of my body, it’s evident how his words were designed to erode my self-worth. Am I really a “control freak” for wanting some sort of control over my own life, my own decisions, my own destiny, and most importantly, my own body? I think not. Try again, bucko!

5 Types Of Gaslighting Defined

Gaslighting is not a one-size-fits-all tactic. It wears many masks, but here are the five most common faces it presents:

1. Coercion: manipulating perceptions through threats or force It’s like a wolf in sheep’s clothing, often masking the manipulator’s insecurities.
   • Example: showering with gifts to divert attention from indiscretions.
2. Blatant Deception: Telling outright lies to make the victim second-guess their memory
   • Example: Denying the receipt of an email, even when faced with evidence.
3. Scapegoating: shifting blame from themselves to another, often vulnerable, party.
   • Example: A failed project? Blame it on one team member, ignoring all other factors.
4. Reality questioning: making the victim question their own memories or experiences
   • Example: “We never had that conversation.” Sound familiar?
5. Trivializing: diminishing the victim’s feelings or achievements, making them feel their worth is negligible.
   • Example: “Your academic achievements? They’re not that impressive.”

Gaslighting is a maze where reality and illusion blur. But with awareness and knowledge, one can find their way out. Stay tuned as we delve deeper into personal stories, expert insights, and actionable advice in the upcoming sections.

The Unwanted Makeover: When Gaslighting Gets Personal

When we think of makeovers, we often envision a positive transformation—a new haircut, a revamped wardrobe, or perhaps a fresh coat of paint in a room. But what happens when the makeover isn’t something you asked for? What if it’s thrust upon you by someone else’s unsolicited opinions and critiques?

The Not-So-Subtle Art of Mr. Ex’s Beauty ‘Advice

From the moment we said, “I do,” it seemed like Mr. Ex had a running commentary on my appearance. And trust me, it wasn’t the flattering kind.

• • Dermatologist Visits: “What am I going to say? Hey Doc, can you fix my wife’s face?'” Irony dripped from his words, making me wonder if I was indeed the monstrous creature he painted me to be.
  • Body Image: He had a knack for turning fruits into weapons, comparing parts of me to “deflated limes.” It was as if every inch of me was up for scrutiny and ridicule.
  • Dental: Before we tied the knot, he insisted I fix my teeth so I’d smile more. Little did he realize that his constant jabs were the very reason my smiles were scarce.
  • Surgery: As I prepared for a 9-hour surgery, he had the audacity to ask if the surgeon could “fix” the extra skin on my arms. His insensitivity was so palpable that the doctor almost reconsidered my surgery.

10 Signs of Gaslighting I Had Glaring Me In The Face

Gaslighting is insidious. It creeps into your psyche, making you question your worth, your memories, and even your sanity. Here are ten signs that you might be a victim:

1. 1. Over-Sensitivity Accusations: “You’re too sensitive,” he’d say. But was I really exaggerating? Or was he just deflecting his own shortcomings onto me?
   2. The Web of Lies: The lies were constant. But the real tragedy? He believed his own fabrications, even when confronted with evidence.
   3. Projection: For years, he bombarded me with messages about narcissistic personality disorder. The irony? He was describing himself, not me.
   4. Isolation: He turned everyone against me. Friends, family, even strangers—no one was immune to his tales of my supposed insanity.
   5. Doubting Reality: I began to question everything. Was I the villain in our story? Or was he just rewriting our narrative to suit his agenda?
   6. Confusion: He was a master of muddying the waters, confusing not just me, but everyone around us.
   7. Trivializing: Remember the forced intimacy? The endless calls and texts? He made it seem like I was the unreasonable one, that my feelings and boundaries didn’t matter.
   8. Self-Doubt: His words became my inner voice, making me question my worth, my decisions, and my sanity.
   9. Control: From choosing our furniture to dictating my dietary choices, he needed to have the upper hand in everything.
   10. Shattered Confidence: Once a confident woman, his constant belittling left me a shadow of my former self.

Finding My Voice

Despite the relentless gaslighting, I found solace in writing. My blog became my sanctuary, a place where I could share my experiences, connect with others, and reclaim my narrative. It’s a testament to my resilience and a beacon of hope for others navigating the treacherous waters of emotional abuse.

In the end, gaslighting is not just about control; it’s about power. But remember, while they might try to dim your light, your inner strength can never be extinguished.

Side Note: If you find yourself in a situation where you feel out of control or are grappling with financial hardships due to manipulative tactics, know that resources are available. Reach out, seek help,  National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or find the nearest local domestic violence program and remember: you deserve to be in control of your own story.