Hidden Harm in Young Relationships: Sociodemographic and Temporal Patterns of Gaslighting Exposure

Gaslighting is a form of psychological abuse that undermines trust in one's own judgment and memory. It has been linked to depression, anxiety, self-doubt and confusion. However, empirical evidence on the occurrence and characteristics of gaslighting exposure among young adults remains limited. This study examined gaslighting exposure among university students and its associations with sociodemographic factors and temporal characteristics (age at gaslighting experience and duration of exposure) using the Gaslighting Relationship Exposure Inventory (GREI). A total of 217 participants (127 local and 90 international students) completed the GREI and provided information on age at gaslighting experience, duration of exposure, gender, nationality, and residential background. Data were analyzed using multiple linear regression, independent-samples t-tests, and Spearman rank-order correlations. A substantial proportion of participants (83.9%) reported at least some level of gaslighting exposure, suggesting that psychologically manipulative behaviours may not be uncommon in romantic relationships during emerging adulthood. At the same time, this finding may partly reflect the operational definition of "any exposure" used in the present study. Higher GREI scores were associated with later age at gaslighting experience and longer duration of exposure, whereas gender, nationality, and residential background were not significant predictors in the regression model. However, unadjusted group comparisons showed longer exposure among women, international students, and urban participants. Later age at gaslighting experience was also associated with longer duration of exposure. These findings provide initial insight into patterns of gaslighting exposure among university students and highlight the importance of understanding gaslighting during emerging adulthood, particularly within the relational contexts in which it occurs. Greater awareness of gaslighting may facilitate recognition of such dynamics and access to appropriate sources of support when needed.