Gaslighting Is Bullying Too

As a mom, my top priority is keeping my children safe—physically, emotionally, and mentally. I’ve learned that harm isn’t always obvious. Gaslighting, for example, is a subtle yet powerful form of bullying. It’s when someone makes you doubt your own feelings or experiences, which can damage self-confidence and trust.

Bullying isn’t just about name-calling or insults or physical harm. Gaslighting can be just as damaging. And I won’t let anyone do that to my children. I will never let that slide, ever. No one should make them feel less than they are. I teach my kids to recognize this kind of behavior, and to trust their instincts. Stand their ground, and never feel guilty for doing what’s right.

It’s also important to help the gaslighter change. Correcting their behavior, getting them to own up to it, and showing they’re willing to change matters. I teach my kids that forgiveness is important, but only when it’s deserved. When someone shows they’re ready to change, that’s when we forgive.