Gaslighting: Covert Control in Intimate Partner Violence

Abstract

Gaslighting is a form of psychological abuse that undermines a victim-survivor’s confidence in their perceptions, memories, and sense of self. Within the context of Intimate Partner Violence (IPV), it is especially harmful, as it creates dependency and restricts access to support. Despite growing public attention, research on gaslighting remains limited. The thesis addresses the question, ‘how can gaslighting be conceptually defined, empirically studied, and modelled to inform IPV research, policy, practice, and public awareness?’ This thesis refines the concept of gaslighting by integrating existing literature with insights from victim-survivors and professionals, examines factors shaping gaslighting in IPV, develops a model of its dynamics, and investigates public recognition and cognitive impacts. A mixed-methods approach was used. Qualitative analyses inform a proposed definition centred on behaviour, outcomes, intention, repetition, subsidiary tactics, and the role of power and intimacy. A conceptual model outlines behavioural patterns, access to support, relationship dynamics, cultural influences, and both immediate and long-term effects. Experimental studies show that public understandings are vague and that partner-led challenges to shared memories can affect recall, confidence, wellbeing, and selfperception. Overall, the thesis demonstrates that gaslighting operates through cognitive manipulation, normative pressure, and social reinforcement, with significant impacts on autonomy and mental health. It highlights persistent misconceptions and outlines implications for law, policy, and education. By establishing gaslighting as a distinct and harmful form of IPV, it provides a foundation for future research, prevention, and intervention.