There are many gaslighting signs in a relationship.
Gaslighting is a form of emotional abuse where the abuser tries to make the victim question their own reality and memories.
They do this by lying, denying, and manipulating the victim’s perceptions. Over time, the victim starts to doubt themselves, and they may even start to believe the abuser’s version of events.
If you’re wondering whether you’re a victim of this and need help, here are some gaslighting signs to look out for:
1. Denial Despite The Evidence
One of the classic signs of gaslighting is when the abuser denies something that you know to be true. For example, they may deny saying something that you know they said or deny doing something that you know they did. This can be confusing and frustrating for the victim, as it’s often hard to prove what really happened. The abuser may also accuse the victim of lying or being mistaken, which can further damage their trust in their own memory and perceptions.
2. Manipulating Information
The abuser may also try to manipulate information to gaslight the victim (much like when being married to a narcissist).
For example, they may twist the victim’s words or actions to make them look bad, or make false claims about the victim to other people.
They may also try to discredit the victim by spreading rumors or lies about them. This can make the victim feel isolated and alone, and make it harder for them to trust their own experiences.
3. Actions Not Matching Their Words
Do you ever feel like your partner is saying one thing but doing another? Or that they’re constantly contradicting themselves?
If so, you may be a victim of gaslighting.
4. Isolating You from Other People
Gaslighters often seek to isolate their victims from their friends and family. If you find yourself feeling isolated and alone, it’s a sign that you’re being gaslighted.
Isolation is a form of control.
By keeping you away from your support system, the gaslighter can more easily control and manipulate you.
If you find yourself feeling isolated, reach out to your friends and family. You should also consider getting professional help, they are experienced and know how to help you heal and deal with the gaslighter.
A couples coach could come in handy.
Don’t let the gaslighter keep you from the people who care about you.
5. Making Excuses For Your Partner’s Behavior
Do you find yourself making excuses for the person who you suspect is gaslighting you? If so, it’s a sign that their manipulation is working.
When we make excuses for someone’s bad behavior, we’re trying to rationalize it away. We tell ourselves that they didn’t really mean to hurt us or that they were just having a bad day.
But the truth is, no one has the right to mistreat another person, no matter what their excuse may be.
6. Feelings Like Walking On Eggshells
Do you feel like you have to tiptoe around the person who is gaslighting you, for fear of setting them off?
If so, it’s a sign that you’re walking on eggshells. Walking on eggshells means living in fear of the other person’s reaction. It’s a form of emotional blackmail, and it’s not healthy or sustainable.
How Do I move Forward Knowing These Gaslighting Signs?
If you are experiencing gaslighting and deflection, it’s VERY important to be aware of the signs.
There are many ways to deflect gaslighting and fight it back, but gaslighting is a form of emotional abuse, and it can be very damaging, even if you leave the relationship and want to heal from it.
If you’re really serious about getting well, healing this emotional wound, and improving your relationship, you can grab a free personalized-steps call with us.
No strings attached, it’s just a free quick call to understand what’s going on in your relationship and help you heal it with some free tips.
Schedule it now here.