From Gaslighting to Mistrust in Others: A Serial Mediation Model of Social Support and Self-Care

Trust is a fundamental component of social life, yet it can be eroded by experiences of psychological abuse within intimate relationships. The present study examined whether exposure to gaslighting, a form of manipulation that undermines victims' perceptions of reality, reduces general trust in people and whether this association is mediated by social support and self-care practices. A convenience sample of 567 adults (aged 18-65) completed validated questionnaires assessing gaslighting experiences, trust, social support, and self-care. Results indicated that gaslighting was directly associated with diminished trust in others. Social support significantly mediated this association, whereas self-care did not serve as an independent mediator. However, serial mediation was observed: higher gaslighting predicted lower social support, which was linked to reduced self-care practices, ultimately contributing to lower trust. Unexpectedly, men reported higher levels of gaslighting experiences, suggesting that gender dynamics in gaslighting may be more complex than previously assumed. These findings highlight the social consequences of gaslighting beyond its intrapersonal effects, pointing to a cycle in which manipulation isolates victims, weakens social support, and indirectly impairs both self-care and trust. These results underscore the importance of addressing gaslighting not only as an individual psychological issue but also as a relational and social challenge.