What Is Gaslighting?

By Josey Murray
Reviewed by Susan Ko, Ph.D.
February 18, 2025

Gaslighting is a term for a type of emotional abuse in which one person manipulates another into doubting their own experiences. This behavior can occur in any relationship. The person gaslighting gains power in the relationship by making the other person question themselves, their feelings, and their perception of reality. Knowing what gaslighting is can help you identify when it might be happening. You may want to talk to a mental health care provider to discuss how to navigate the situation.