Regarding Gaslighting But Not Exactly

[emef]

Is there a word for the effect of gaslighting but not the intent? As in, what it feels like? I don't really want to get into a discussion of whether it's possible for someone to feel destabilized about their perception of reality without another person (or group of people) intending to make them feel that way, I'm just trying to explain the sensation of being on the receiving end.

I feel like when there is a discussion of gaslighting, the focus is often on the tactics and the abuser's motivations, and so that's what people think about when they hear the word. Like, they picture sinister motives. When I try to explain what if feels like to have a lack of confidence about my own perceptions, I hesitate to use the word - I want to avoid accidentally finding myself in a discussion of whether there's anyone actually intending to make me feel that way (particularly since, ironically, that would compound the issue.)

Anyway I've tried to look it up but as far as I can tell there's no specific word for "that thing when all of a sudden your brain's main occupation is fact-checking. Except it's fact-checking itself."

Comments

[marginaliana]

I keep trying to think of how to comment here, but I just can't find what's right. So. I read this and I'm thinking about it.

[venusinthenight]

Second-guessing? "My brain keeps questioning itself"? Lizard brain? Your brain turns into hoodie-wearing!Kermit talking to Actual Kermit?

Maybe this will be a little useful (even if it's not exactly what you're describing): https://the-orbit.net/brutereason/2014/07/18/depression-and-self-gaslighting/

[toft]

I think I'd describe that as self-doubt, probably?