Gaslighting on a National Scale

Gaslighting is a term that originated from the 1938 play Gas Light, and two subsequent film adaptations in 1940 and 1944. It depicts a husband that psychologically abuses his young wife, by denying and contradicting their shared experience and truth to gain power. Ultimately her beliefs are destabilized, delegitimized and denied.

Gaslighting is now recognized as form of relationship abuse. It is a tactic used by narcissists to gain leverage and power in a relationship or prove their own fragile self-worth. Just recently, the Dixie Chicks released a song called Gaslighter, singing:

Gaslighter, denier

Doin' anything to get your ass farther

Gaslighter, big timer

Repeating all of the mistakes of your father

Gaslighter, you broke me

You're sorry, but where's my apology?

Gaslighter, you liar

Gaslighting is not only a form of relationship abuse; this behavior also extends into the workplace as well into the political realm. It too has a destabilizing effect on overall morale and leads to collective confusion. This behavior often trickles down from top leadership, amplified by social media, permeating organizational structure and undermining shared values. 

Unfortunately, this behavior is currently on display by our national leaders in a time of crisis. Misinformation and lack of coordinated communication is undermining the need to slow the spread of coronavirus across the United States. And the implications of this behavior leads to life and death situations.

Gaslighting is an insidious form of abuse with real consequences. We must call it what it is and demand more from our leaders.