Gaslighting vs. Narcissist

Attribute	Gaslighting	Narcissist
Manipulative behavior	Yes	Yes
Psychological manipulation	Yes	Yes
Emotional abuse	Yes	Yes
Gaslighting tactics	Gaslighting techniques	Narcissistic behaviors
Undermining reality	Yes	Yes

Definition

Gaslighting is a form of psychological manipulation in which a person seeks to sow seeds of doubt in a targeted individual or in members of a targeted group, making them question their own memory, perception, or sanity. This can range from denying something that happened to the victim, to making the victim doubt their own thoughts and feelings. On the other hand, narcissism is a personality disorder characterized by a grandiose sense of self-importance, a need for excessive admiration, and a lack of empathy for others. Narcissists often believe they are superior to others and have a sense of entitlement.

Manipulation Tactics

Gaslighting involves manipulating someone into questioning their own reality, memory, or perceptions. This can be done through lying, denying facts, or twisting the truth to make the victim doubt themselves. Narcissists, on the other hand, manipulate others to feed their own ego and maintain their sense of superiority. They may use tactics such as gaslighting, manipulation, and emotional abuse to control and dominate others.

Impact on Victims

Victims of gaslighting often experience confusion, self-doubt, and a loss of trust in their own perceptions. They may feel isolated and alone, as the gaslighter tries to cut them off from their support system. On the other hand, victims of narcissists may experience emotional abuse, manipulation, and a loss of self-esteem. They may feel constantly criticized and belittled by the narcissist, leading to feelings of worthlessness and inadequacy.

Relationship Dynamics

In a gaslighting relationship, the gaslighter often seeks to control and dominate the victim by making them doubt themselves and their reality. This can lead to a power imbalance in the relationship, with the gaslighter holding all the control. In a relationship with a narcissist, the dynamic is often one-sided, with the narcissist seeking admiration and validation from the victim while giving little in return. The victim may feel like they are constantly walking on eggshells to avoid upsetting the narcissist.

Behavior Patterns

Gaslighters often exhibit manipulative and controlling behavior, seeking to undermine the victim's sense of reality and self-worth. They may use tactics such as lying, denial, and blame-shifting to maintain their power over the victim. Narcissists, on the other hand, exhibit grandiose behavior, seeking admiration and validation from others to boost their own ego. They may be charming and charismatic on the surface, but underneath they lack empathy and genuine concern for others.

Seeking Help

Victims of gaslighting may benefit from therapy to help them regain their sense of self and reality. A therapist can help them recognize the manipulation tactics being used against them and develop strategies to cope with and counteract the gaslighting. Victims of narcissists may also benefit from therapy to help them rebuild their self-esteem and set boundaries in their relationships. A therapist can help them recognize the signs of narcissistic abuse and develop healthy coping mechanisms.