This research paper presents a comprehensive qualitative study on the process of meaning-making and post-traumatic growth (PTG) among 11 Indian survivors of gaslighting and mental abuse in intimate partner relationships. Gaslighting is a profound form of psychological manipulation that systematically undermines a victim's perception of reality, leading to profound confusion, self-doubt, and a fractured sense of identity. While the traumatic nature of such abuse can shatter a person's core beliefs and worldview, this study posits that the active process of making sense of the experience is crucial for healing and recovery. Through narrative interviews, this research sought to illuminate the complex journey survivors undertake from the depths of self-blame to a state of transformative growth. The findings contribute significantly to the existing literature on this under-researched topic, particularly within the sociocultural context of India.
The thematic narrative analysis of the participants' stories revealed a nuanced progression from the initial stages of abuse to a final state of reconciliation and growth, captured in distinct themes involving a fundamental reconstruction of their worldview and a redefinition of the relationship as abusive, a necessary step for regaining a sense of personal agency. PTG in this context is not merely a return to a pre-trauma state but a dynamic and gradual change that leads to a deeper understanding of one's inherent worth and a more resilient outlook on life.
The findings have significant implications for therapeutic interventions, suggesting a need for trauma-centered psychotherapy that specifically supports the narrative meaning-making process. By helping survivors reconstruct their experiences, therapists can facilitate healing and contribute to their long-term growth and well-being.