When an abuser attempts to belittle or invalidate another by stating or implying that person is the one causing problems after trying to hold the abuser accountable. A manipulation tactic often done to justify or deflect from the abuser’s behavior or lies. These manipulators will often use tactics to wear you down over time with illogical excuses and repetitive actions that do not match their words.
My boss keeps gaslighting me when I’m just expecting him to make good on his promises of a pay raise. Why did he even bring it up if it was just a lie to begin with? I’m not the problem; he is.
An easily abused buzzword that can be bounced back and forth by irresponsible or otherwise immature people use to deflect blame and accountability. Better off removed from the dictionary for the sake of a functioning society.
Person A: This wouldn't have happened if you didn't quit your job
Person B: How dare you! That's gaslighting! This wouldn't have happened if you didn't quit YOUR job!