Defining Gaslighting in Gender-Based Violence: A Mixed-Methods Systematic Review.

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Sociology
• Gender Studies

Background:

• Gaslighting is increasingly discussed in relation to psychological abuse, power imbalance, and gender-based violence (GBV).
• The term gaslighting is inconsistently defined and often conflated with broader manipulation tactics.
• Existing research predominantly focuses on intimate partner violence (IPV), neglecting its role in other forms of GBV.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize interdisciplinary literature on gaslighting within GBV contexts.
• To develop a comprehensive framework detailing gaslighting tactics, survivor outcomes, and the influence of social power dynamics.
• To establish a clearer, evidence-based definition of gaslighting.

Main Methods:

• A systematic review of academic literature was conducted.
• A comprehensive search across multiple databases identified 96 relevant records.
• Thematic analysis was employed to categorize gaslighting tactics and survivor outcomes.

Main Results:

• A two-part framework for gaslighting was developed: (a) tactics (cognitive/perceptual manipulation, emotional/psychological abuse, power/control, other manipulation) and (b) survivor outcomes (perceptual/memory disruption, emotional distress, social isolation, resistance).
• Gaslighting was identified as an interpersonal act sustained by social structures, utilizing identity factors and marginalization.
• The review highlights the epistemic nature of gaslighting and its intersection with systemic oppression.

Conclusions:

• Gaslighting is a complex phenomenon extending beyond interpersonal dynamics, deeply intertwined with systemic inequalities and social power.
• A comprehensive definition of gaslighting is proposed, emphasizing its epistemic dimensions and connection to oppression.
• Future research should explore gaslighting in diverse GBV contexts beyond IPV, informing policy and practice for survivor support.