Which term refers to the emotional manipulation that occurs in some abusive relationships?

Gaslighting is a term that specifically describes a form of emotional manipulation where one person seeks to gain power and control over another by making them doubt their own perceptions, memories, or understanding of reality. In the context of abusive relationships, the abuser may deny events, manipulate facts, or use other tactics to create confusion and self-doubt in the victim. This can lead to significant psychological harm, as the victim struggles to trust their own feelings and experiences.

This term is distinct from coercion, which involves forcing someone to act in a certain way through threats or pressure, and from isolation, which refers to controlling a victim's social interactions to create dependency. Intimidation involves making someone fearful through threats or behavior, but does not specifically encompass the insidious doubt and confusion that characterize gaslighting. Understanding gaslighting is essential in recognizing and addressing emotional abuse in relationships, making it a crucial concept in the study of family violence.