‘Gaslighting’ in Family Law

The term ‘gaslighting’ was used for the first time ever in a published High Court judgement in the Family Courts. This was a milestone moment, giving the term legal credibility and legitimacy.

‘Gaslighting’ is a psychological term used to describe a specific type of manipulation where the manipulator is trying to get someone else (or a group of people) to question their own reality, memory or perceptions.

In this case, the woman had been subject to domestic abuse and her partner had convinced her she had bipolar disorder by repeatedly telling her, her family and other professionals so, despite no supporting medical evidence. This was described in the judgement as ‘gaslighting’ and an example of controlling and coercive behaviour.

Separation can be stressful enough, without aggravating factors such as allegations of ‘gaslighting’ or other forms of domestic abuse. In these situations it is vital to seek expert advice to understand the potential action you can take to protect yourself going forward.

If you are interested in the case and would like to learn more, you can read the judgement here: Re B-B (Domestic Abuse: Fact-Finding) (Rev1) [2022] EWHC 108 (Fam)

Please contact us if you would like more information about the issues raised in this article or any aspect of divorce and family law.