The actions of a contestant on a popular reality dating show have prompted a domestic abuse charity to issue a warning about unhealthy behaviour in relationships.
In a statement Chief executive of Women’s Aid Katie Ghose said that there were “clear warning signs” and that the contestants behaviour towards his female counterpart exhibited signs of “gaslighting and emotional abuse”.
What is Gaslighting?
Gaslighting is a term which means “controlling or coercive behaviour in an intimate or family relationship. Domestic abuse does not always involve violence and in 2015 the Serious Crime Act England and Wales was changed to recognise controlling and coercive behaviour in relationships.
Examples of Gaslighting
- The person will lie constantly and deny that they ever said something even though you have proof.
- They wear you down over time, then generously compliment you to confuse you masking their behaviour.
- They will try to distance people from you who are close and accuse them of being liars to make you doubt them and alienate yourself in the process.
- They will try to convince you and others that you are not of sound mind.
The perpetrator is fully aware that confusion weakens a persons frame of mind and they use this tactic to weaken and isolate their victim. The victim will then become controlled and submissive and feel unable to challenge the behaviour for fear of sounding and being unstable.
Help
Ringrose Law are able to assist with protective orders to include Non-Molestation orders to ensure your safety and well being with support and practical guidance given within a confidential setting.
If you have been a victim of domestic abuse then please contact our specialised family teams at our offices. We have teams in Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire, based in Sleaford, Boston, Grantham, Spalding, Newark and Lincoln with free clinic appointments available.