“Gaslighting is a form of psychological manipulation in which one person seeks to control or influence another by distorting or denying reality. This can take many forms, from outright denial of facts to subtle manipulation of emotions and perceptions. In the context of peace leadership, gaslighting can be particularly devastating, as it can undermine trust, create confusion, and derail even the most promising efforts at conflict resolution.”
Peace leadership is a critical part of conflict resolution, requiring leaders to navigate complex webs of interest, power, and emotion. However, one of the most insidious threats to peace leadership is gaslighting – a form of psychological manipulation that can undermine even the most well-intentioned efforts at conflict resolution. As Proverbs 11:3 reminds us, “The integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity” (NIV). We will explore the implications of gaslighting in peace leadership, with a focus on conflict resolution.
Gaslighting is a form of psychological manipulation in which one person seeks to control or influence another by distorting or denying reality. This can take many forms, from outright denial of facts to subtle manipulation of emotions and perceptions. In the context of peace leadership, gaslighting can be particularly devastating, as it can undermine trust, create confusion, and derail even the most promising efforts at conflict resolution.
Gaslighting can manifest in peace leadership in several ways;
Denial of facts
A party to the conflict may deny or distort facts, making it difficult for peace leaders to establish a shared understanding of the conflict.
Emotional manipulation
A party to the conflict may use emotional manipulation to influence the peace leader’s perceptions or decisions.
Blame-shifting
A party to the conflict may shift blame for the conflict onto others, making it difficult for peace leaders to identify the root causes of the conflict.
The implications of gaslighting in peace leadership or conflict resolution are significant, as it can:
Undermine trust
Gaslighting can create mistrust among parties to the conflict, making it difficult to establish a foundation for peace. As Matthew 5:37 reminds us, “All you need to say is simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’; anything beyond this comes from the evil one” (NIV).
Create confusion
Gaslighting can create confusion and uncertainty, making it difficult for peace leaders to develop and implement effective strategies.
Derail conflict resolution
Gaslighting can derail even the most promising efforts at conflict resolution, by creating mistrust, confusion, and uncertainty.
To address gaslighting in peace leadership, several strategies can be employed;
Peace leaders should establish clear facts and evidence-based information to counter denial or distortion of reality.
Peace leaders should develop emotional intelligence to recognize and resist emotional manipulation.
Neutral third-party facilitation can help to establish trust and credibility among parties to the conflict.
Gaslighting is a significant threat to peace leadership and conflict resolution. As Psalm 101:7 reminds us, “No one who practices deceit shall dwell in my house; no one who utters lies shall continue in my presence” (NIV). By understanding the dynamics of gaslighting and employing strategies to address it, peace leaders can build trust, establish clear facts, and develop effective strategies for resolving conflicts. However, recognizing and resisting gaslighting is critical to achieving lasting peace and resolution.
Prof. Ofonime Emmanuel Bassey is Chairman, South South Zone of Police Campaign Against Cultism and Other Vices, a consummate professional with more than thirty (30) years work experience in Consulting, Peace and Conflict Management, Peace Building, Security, Law Enforcement, Academia, United Nation Peace Mission, an Apostolic Bishop, author of more than thirty (30) books, President/Chancellor, NISSI Institute ( www.nissiinsitute.net )
For training and consultation, you can reach him via:
WhatsApp: +2347065828892
Mail: emmanuelbassey@gmail.com
