Perhaps the most dangerous form, societal gaslighting involves the manipulation of the masses. It occurs when the narcissist as risen to a position of power and is able to influence large groups of people. If questioned about his words or actions, the narcissist will gladly take center stage to regain his naysayers’ favor. Adolf Hitler, a prime example, was able to get his followers to commit murder. Many who at first opposed him eventually became loyal followers and did as he wished.
Because narcissists are master manipulators, they tend to be able to rise to positions of power, which can be very detrimental. We also see societal gaslighting play out in dictatorships and in those countries that have a political leader that is willing to take extreme measures to garner trust and ensure societal compliance. Those in significant positions of power often use surveillance to assert control and mask this intrusion of privacy under the guise that it is necessary to maintain order.
As you consider current and historical leaders, it’s likely some will come to mind that you believe have used societal gaslighting as a form of control. It is particularly difficult to oppose these individuals. And, thus, members of society tend to make the decision to comply rather than question the narc’s tactics. It can be a very suffocating experience as those who are subjected to it feel like they have no say in how they live.
All gaslighting is unhealthy and leaves a lasting effect on the recipient. In fact, it tends to leave emotional scars long after a victim has been physically released from their trauma and is one of the primary reasons narcissistic abuse victims endure post-traumatic stress disorder long after the fact. It leads to deep distrust of others that is not easy to shake and causes them to question every potentially meaningful relationship in their lives. However, understanding the red flags of gaslighting can help a victim escape a toxic union before it’s too late.