In a digital era where information is just a click away, the term “gaslighting” has emerged as the most searched term in the United States, according to a recent survey conducted by Crossword Solver. This revelation follows a staggering 1,740% increase in searches, coinciding with its designation as the Word of the Year for 2022 by Merriam-Webster. While the term has found its way into everyday conversations, experts caution that its misuse is becoming increasingly prevalent, raising concerns about its accurate application.
Defining Gaslighting:
Merriam-Webster defines gaslighting as the “psychological manipulation of a person over an extended period, causing the victim to question the validity of their thoughts, perception of reality, or memories.” This manipulation results in confusion, loss of confidence, and a dependency on the perpetrator. The term originated from the 1938 play “Gas Light” and its film adaptations, where a husband manipulates his wife into questioning her sanity.
Misuse in Contemporary Discourse:
Despite its clinical definition, experts warn that gaslighting is often misused in contemporary discourse. Rather than being employed to describe psychological manipulation, the term is increasingly weaponized to silence dissent and halt conversations.
Dr. Robin Stern, co-founder of the Yale Centre for Emotional Intelligence, emphasizes that gaslighting involves undermining another person’s reality with the intent to create uncertainty.
The Nuanced Reality:
Dr. Stern clarifies that gaslighting is not synonymous with mere insistence or attempts to influence someone’s perspective. True gaslighting involves a deliberate effort to make an individual question their memory, sanity, perception, and overall reality. The misapplication of the term highlights the importance of accurately understanding and applying psychological concepts in everyday discussions.
As “gaslighting” takes center stage in online searches and everyday conversations, its accurate application becomes crucial. Understanding the nuanced reality of gaslighting is essential to prevent its misuse and to foster a more informed and empathetic discourse. In an era where psychological terms permeate everyday language, maintaining the integrity of their meaning is paramount for constructive communication and societal understanding.
