Out of the many slang terms and words that the younger generation have come up with in recent years, the word “gaslight” has likely come up in numerous situations. Regardless of whether it’s being used ironically or unironically, the word has been thrown around endlessly. Gaslighting is a means of psychological manipulation, in which the person targeted feels a sort of self-doubt or uncertainty regarding their beliefs.
According to Paige Sweet, an assistant professor of sociology at the University of Michigan, “It’s making someone seem or feel unstable, irrational and not credible, making them feel like what they’re seeing or experiencing isn’t real, that they’re making it up, that no one else will believe them.” In our own terms, we believe it amounts to being made to feel feelings of vulnerability, isolation or insignificance from one’s peers, due to difference in opinions.
Social media has definitely influenced the amount of gaslighting that goes around in the modern world. With how easy it is to comment on other’s posts or videos, it simply takes a click to throw around a hate or judgemental comment. Small things may build up and may then lead to public harassment, cyberbullying and other unmeant circumstances, depending on the severity of the situation.
GenDigital Says
If you’re experiencing any sort of gaslighting, no matter how small, don’t be afraid to say something. Your opinions are definitely valid and you don’t deserve to be belittled for wanting to voice your thoughts.