Examples of Gaslighting at Work

Managing workplace relationships is important because, for most of us, that is where we spend most of our time. Unfortunately, the workplace environment can sometimes be unbearable due to several reasons. In this article, we will look at gaslighting at work and its effects on those who are being abused.

Gaslighting is a term used to describe a situation where one person or a group of people psychologically manipulate someone into questioning their reality, action, feelings, motives, or even sanity. Gaslighting is a form of emotional abuse that can occur between any two individuals, but in the workplace environment, it is usually aided by an imbalance of power.

The point of gaslighting, as in all forms of abuse, is exerting power and control. Gaslighters tend to be individuals who struggle with taking responsibility for their actions and manipulate people or situations so they are not called out.

Gaslighting at work can be subtle or overt. Whichever way it is, it is important to know how to spot it when it is happening because if it’s not addressed it can have damaging, long-lasting psychological effects. Below are a few tactics used by gaslighters in the workplace:

Defensiveness.

If there is a problem they are responsible for, they will not own up to it; instead they will try to shift blame, deny completely, lie, or downplay their responsibility. This leaves the complainant questioning their experience and feelings.

Claiming undue credit.

They take credit for work done by others. If it was a team effort, they make it seem like it was solely themselves that was responsible for its success. However, if there is a problem with work, even if they are responsible for its failure, they will blame it on other team members or the person they have chosen to abuse.

Victimize by intimidation.

They constantly flaunt their qualifications or superior position to intimidate. They can use threats, belittling behavior, outright criticism, and disrespectful communication. All of this is done to put someone in their place.

Alienation.

If they have zeroed in on a victim, they will be responsible for isolating that person from other co-workers. They might do this by excluding them from event invitations, not sharing important information needed for work, or spreading gossip. This is to build a community behind their abuse.

Dismiss qualifications and abilities.

The victim’s work is never validated or appreciated, even if it is good. They seek to embarrass the victim by nitpicking at their work and finding flaws. They might even question the victims’ qualifications and abilities to perform their duties.

As with any abuse, gaslighting can wreak havoc in someone’s life. Work can become toxic which can have huge implications for the victim’s mental health and well-being. The first step would be to recognize that you are a victim of this person or this group’s toxic behavior.

If it is difficult for you to confront or be assertive with the abuser, make use of your workplace HR department or your organization’s EAPs to start understanding your situation and taking steps to heal and recover.

Are you struggling with gaslighting at work?

Victims of gaslighting usually come away from the experience with their self-esteem destroyed, their ability to make decisions undermined, and feeling emotionally distraught. In extreme cases, victims may struggle with depression and/or anxiety.

If you or someone you know has experienced issues of gaslighting at work, know that there are people who can assist. Get in touch with us at Carlsbad Christian Counseling. Trained therapists and counselors in Carlsbad, California are available to help you recover.