10 Signs of Gaslighting at Work

Gaslighting is a form of psychological manipulation that involves making someone question their sanity or perception of reality. When it occurs in the workplace, gaslighting can be especially damaging to an individual's mental health in addition to negatively impacting their job performance and trust in their employer.

What is Gaslighting?

Gaslighting is a form of emotional abuse that involves manipulating someone into questioning their own thoughts, feelings, and memories. The term “gaslighting” stems from the plot of the 1938 play Gas Light, which gained more notoriety when it was adapted into a 1944 Ingrid Bergman film about a woman who decides to move to Italy to take up opera singing in the wake of the death of her aunt, a famous opera singer. While there she falls in love with a man but slowly begins to notice strange things around his house, such as missing pictures and gaslights that dim without being touched. Beginning to question her sanity, she ultimately realizes that the man she fell in love with was not who she thought he was

In a workplace setting, gaslighting can occur when a colleague or supervisor uses tactics to make an employee doubt their abilities or perceptions. This can then, understandably, lead to feelings of confusion, self-doubt, and anxiety.

Signs of Gaslighting at Work

1. Constantly Changing Expectations

One sign of gaslighting at work is when a supervisor or colleague constantly changes their expectations or goals for a project. This can leave the affected employee feeling confused and unsure of what is expected of them.

2. Withholding Information

Gaslighters may withhold important information from their colleagues or employees, making it difficult for them to do their job effectively.

3. Blaming Others for Their Mistakes

A gaslighter may try to shift the blame onto others for their mistakes or failures, leading the targeted person to feel that they are always getting things wrong.

4. Undermining Accomplishments

Gaslighters may try to undermine their victim's accomplishments by downplaying their achievements or taking credit for their work.

5. Creating a Hostile Work Environment

Gaslighters may create a hostile work environment by constantly criticizing their victim, making them feel like they are walking on eggshells. This may lead to hyper vigilance, making it difficult for the victim to focus on their work.

6. Isolating the Victim

A gaslighter may try to isolate their victim by spreading rumors or gossip about them, making it difficult for them to form relationships with their colleagues.

7. Denying Their Behavior

Gaslighters may deny their behavior or make excuses for it when confronted, leading their target to doubt their perceptions and wonder if they are overreacting.

8. Using Manipulative Language

Gaslighters may use manipulative language to make their victim doubt their own thoughts and feelings. They may use phrases like "you're too sensitive" or "you're overreacting" to dismiss their victim's concerns.

9. Gaslighting at Work Memes

In today's digital age, gaslighting at work can also take the form of memes or jokes.

10. Physical Symptoms

Gaslighting at work can also result in somatic symptoms, such as headaches, stomach aches, and difficulty sleeping. Such ailments may be a result of the stress and anxiety caused by the gaslighting.

How to Address Gaslighting at Work

If you suspect that you are a victim of gaslighting at work, here are some steps you can take to address the situation:

1. Document the Gaslighting Behavior

Keep a record of any gaslighting behavior that you experience, including dates, times, and specific incidents. This can help you to see patterns and provide evidence if you need to report the behavior to HR.

2. Seek Support

Talk to a trusted colleague, friend, or family member about your experiences. They can provide emotional support and help you to see the situation more clearly.

3. Confront the Gaslighter

If you feel comfortable, you can confront the gaslighter and let them know how their behavior is affecting you. While they will most likely deny or dismiss your concerns, standing up for yourself can help you regain your sense of control.

4. Report the Behavior

If the gaslighting behavior continues or escalates, it may be necessary to report it to HR or a supervisor. Make sure to have your documentation ready and be prepared to explain the situation in detail.

5. Seek Professional Help

If the gaslighting is affecting your mental health, it may be helpful to seek professional help from a therapist or counselor. They can provide support and strategies for coping with the gaslighting behavior.

Conclusion

Gaslighting at work is a form of emotional abuse that can have a significant impact on an individual's mental health and job performance. It is important to recognize the signs of gaslighting and take steps to address it. By documenting the behavior, seeking support, and confronting the gaslighter, you can regain your sense of control and protect your well-being in the workplace. Remember, you are not alone and there is help available.