By Ross Rosenberg, M.Ed., LCPC, CADC

PART 1 (of 4) CONSISE DEFINITION OF GASLIGHTING
Defining Gaslighting
Gaslighting is simply impossible to comprehend, identify, and permanently eradicate without an accurate understanding of what it is and how it evades detection. Because of its complex nature and apparent invisibility, it secretly lurks in the shadows while perpetuating unfathomable harm upon its targets. To overcome this scourge of a problem, we must update, redefine, and broaden our understanding of it. The following provides a concise definition of the problem while introducing several new gaslighting concepts

Gaslighting is an insidious and diabolical mind-control strategy that sociopaths and sociopathic narcissists use to covertly prey upon vulnerable, Self-Love Deficient/SLD[i] (codependent) individuals. The gaslighter systematically manipulates the SLD into believing that they are inherently broken, unlovable, and in need of escaping or isolating themselves from others.

The gaslighter’s continuous campaign of control and character assassination eventually renders the SLD hopeless over problems that were once considered mild or never previously existing, leaving them feeling fragile, weak, and flawed. Much like victims of Stockholm Syndrome, the SLD victim is loyal and protective of their captor while believing they are the only person who can unconditionally love, accept, and protect them.

Stay tuned for part two in my next Weekly Reflection. For more on this topic see “The Codependency Cure” and “The Eleven Stage Self-Love Recovery Program.”[i].

Until next time…

Warmly,
Ross Rosenberg, M.Ed., LCPC, CADC,

[i] The video will be available on or before June 10, 2021, at Self-Love Recovery Institute’s website – www.SelfLoveRecovery.com

[i] I changed the name of “codependency” to “Self-Love Deficit Disorder” or “SLDD.” I also changed the term “codependent” to “Self-Love Deficient” or “SLD.”