By Ross Rosenberg, M.Ed, LCPC, CADC
Psychotherapist, Author, Educator, Expert Witness
Gaslighting is a manipulative mind and behavior control strategy. It is perpetrated by highly manipulative pathological narcissists who desire power and control over weak and defenseless victims. These predators prey on susceptible individuals who believe in their false altruism, affection and promises of protection. Gaslighters are most successful when they believably cast themselves as loyal and dutiful protectorates who are unconditionally invested in defending and caring for their beloved gaslit victims.
Gaslighters achieve control over their victims by systematically manipulating the environment. So that distress is experienced over an implanted problem(s) that either was only mildly problematic or never existed. Because victims are coerced into believing their inculcated problems are real, and shown repeated proof of their escalation, they begin to increasingly identify with and succumb to the implanted, progressive nature. As the problems and consequent feelings of hopelessness escalate, gaslighters then further instill insecurities and paranoid feelings and thoughts. The methodical barrage of implanted narratives eventually glues the victims to their problems. Consequently it manifests as long-term hopelessness, powerlessness and shame.
“These predators prey on susceptible individuals who believe in their false altruism, affection and promises of protection. Gaslighters are most successful when they believably cast themselves as loyal and dutiful protectorates who are unconditionally invested in defending and caring for their beloved gaslit victims.”
Ross Rosenberg
“These predators prey on susceptible individuals who believe in their false altruism, affection and promises of protection. Gaslighters are most successful when they believably cast themselves as loyal and dutiful protectorates who are unconditionally invested in defending and caring for their beloved gaslit victims.”
Ross Rosenberg
“Secrecy Requirement: gaslighting can only work if the victim is manipulated into a covenant of secrecy. Such is implemented when the victim is convinced that the outside world, or formerly trusted people, have a vested interest in hurting them.”
Ross Rosenberg
“Gaslighting victims are rendered helpless when they are indoctrinated to be hopeless over the highly upsetting problem about which the gaslighter keeps reminding them.”
Ross Rosenberg
“Gaslighting and brainwashing are one of many tactics used in Narcissistic Abuse Syndrome. Gaslighting is an insidious mind control method that pathological narcissists covertly use on vulnerable codependents they desire to control and dominate.”
Ross Rosenberg
In terms of gaslighting, I define it as “to implant false and/or distorted narratives that are specially designed or formulated to manipulate a person into a destructive web of deception, loss of control, and the surrender of personal freedom and beliefs of self-worth, self-value, self-esteem, and productivity.”
Ross Rosenberg
“Gaslighting is a manipulative mind and behavior control strategy perpetrated by highly manipulative pathological narcissists who desire power and control over weak and defenseless victims.”
Ross Rosenberg
For more information about Ross Rosenberg’s services, educational and self-help resources, please visit https://www.selfloverecovery.com/ or write us at help@selfloverecovery.com
