Abstract:
This study aimed to examine the relationship between gaslighting, emotional dysregulation, and self-doubt among young adults. The current study employed a quantitative cross-sectional correlational research design. The study employed purposive sampling to recruit a total of 216 university students (n = 106 males and n = 110 females). Three scales were employed for this study; the Gaslighting Relationship Scale (GRS), the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale – Short Form (DERS-16), and the Judgmental Self-Doubt Scale (JSDS). The analyses of the data were performed using SPSS and SmartPLS. The correlational results revealed that gaslighting significantly and positively correlated with emotional dysregulation and self-doubt and that emotional dysregulation significantly and positively correlated with self-doubt. Emotional dysregulation comprised of six sub-scales that were significantly correlated with self-doubt. However, findings from the analysis performed in SEM showed the evidence for the mediation model that was tested. Generally speaking, findings provide the evidence of a direct and indirect impact of gaslighting on self-doubt among young adults. Emotional dysregulation mediates partially the relationship between gaslighting and self-doubt among young adults. Findings from independent samples t-test proved the existence of gender differences, where females had significantly higher scores for emotional dysregulation including such components as emotional clarity, goal-directed behavior, impulsivity, the lack of emotion regulation strategies and non-acceptance of emotions and self-doubt compared to males. This study highlights the importance of understanding negative psychological consequences that interpersonal manipulation can cause and need to develop intervention programs and awareness about gaslighting as well as skills of emotion management.
