Unfortunately, there are some typologies of abusive parenting, which can occur consciously or unconsciously, depending on the circumstances, conditions, and worldview of adults. It is very common for a child to be manipulated by the parents and this manipulation or gaslighting also leaves traces in the growth process.
Gaslighting is a form of manipulation, in which the abusive person controls the victim's reality, making the latter confused or doubting himself and his thoughts.
There are some signs that clearly show that when you were a child, your parents manipulated you:
1. You did not feel intelligent
The first action an abusive parent does is to make you doubt your intelligence. It is much simpler to manipulate a child who is not confident in himself and his ideas.
2. You are accused of exaggerating your reactions
Whether a child or an adult, you have to express your emotions. There is no habit limit. If you are hurt by something, the way you react is more than normal. Of course, a manipulative parent suppresses these feelings of yours, accusing you of overdoing it, even after breaking your boundaries and barriers.
3. You have lied about past events
Another way of manipulating is to distort or change reality, about events that have happened before. A child sees the parent as a role model, so he blindly believes him. A manipulative parent uses this.
4. You feel pressured for the future
Usually, manipulative parents decide about your life. They plan the future, make decisions, and present the trajectory you will follow, even if you do not approve. For example, if your dad has chosen a certain course / education / profession for you, even if it does not match your passion, then we are dealing with a case of manipulation.
5. Your circle of friends has shrunk
Isolation of the child and his separation from friends is another sign of manipulation. An abusive parent will tease the child in the presence of his friends, will not allow him to go out and have fun, or create beautiful memories and moments.
6. The parent has never admitted to being wrong
Yes, a gaslighter and manipulator never admits to being wrong, even if it has hurt, broken boundaries, or interfered with the child's privacy.
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Source: Learning Mind
