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Given that autistics are consistently told that our thoughts, actions, and percpetions differ from the "norm," we are very susceptible to the psychological manipulation of gaslighting.
A definition ( http://thrivetalk.com ) of gaslighting is: A manipulative tactic in which a person, to gain power and control, plants seeds of uncertainty in the victim. The self-doubt and constant skepticism slowly and meticulously cause the individual to question their reality.
TW: Multiple forms of abuse
As an autistic person, have you ever tried to point out how someone emotionally/physically/sexually harmed you, only to have that person claim that you're misunderstanding because you're autistic?
As an autistic person, have you ever tried to point out how someone emotionally/physically/sexually harmed you, only to have that person claim that you're misunderstanding because you're autistic?
Have you ever had a loved one call you "crazy" and "irrational" or insist that you're having a meltdown when you've tried to point out their hurtful behavior?
BIPOC autistics: Have you ever had someone tell you that you are "too sensitive" or "overreacting" to blatant racism and/or microaggressions, blaming your autism the reason why you're upset?
Have you ever tried to discuss an issue with a person, only for them to list out yout "unreasonableness" given how much they've been "patient," "loving," and "suppotive" despite your autism?
Even if we love the person gaslighting us, we must take notes on their behavior to track trends, ask for others' outside perspective if a pattern emerges, and escape with the support of others. Autistics deserve healthy love, just like everyone else.
