Hacker News new | past | comments | ask | show | jobs | submit login

No, "gaslighting" is a term for specifically making somebody doubt their own sanity by sabotaging their perception of their own actions.

It's not simply lying or creating fear, it's something a lot more insidious, and I don't think it can be really done on a non-specific target.

Eg, an example would be intentionally hiding somebody's keys to convince them they can't keep track of anything, or scheduling an appointment the person is supposed to go to, never telling them about it, then arguing they were told several times, they're just dumb and forgot.




> sanity by sabotaging their perception of their own actions.

I don't think "of their own actions" belongs in the definition. Perception of others actions, as well as basic facts, can be under attack as well.




Consider applying for YC's Spring batch! Applications are open till Feb 11.

Guidelines | FAQ | Lists | API | Security | Legal | Apply to YC | Contact

Search: