Subtle Manifestations of Psychological Abuse in the Organizational Environment: From Gaslighting to Exclusion and Other Forms of Psychosocial Manipulation

Abstract

This paper explores the subtle manifestations of psychological abuse in organizational environments, focusing on mechanisms such as gaslighting, social exclusion, and broader forms of psychosocial manipulation. Unlike overtly aggressive behaviors, these practices are often covert, ambiguous, and therefore challenging to detect, report, or sanction. However, their cumulative impact is substantial, leading to adverse outcomes at both the individual and collective level. Employees exposed to such dynamics may experience heightened stress, anxiety, and diminished psychological well-being, while organizations face erosion of interpersonal trust, weakening of social capital, and deterioration of the organizational climate. The analysis emphasizes that these practices are not limited to individual interactions between colleagues or leaders and subordinates, but may also be embedded within organizational structures, cultures, and power relations. Gaslighting, for instance, undermines employees’ confidence in their own perceptions and judgments, while social exclusion marginalizes individuals, depriving them of meaningful participation in group processes. Such mechanisms perpetuate asymmetric power dynamics and silence dissenting voices, ultimately undermining organizational integrity and performance. In response, the paper advocates for the development of comprehensive institutional strategies that address psychological abuse beyond its overt manifestations. Preventive measures, recognition protocols, and intervention policies grounded in ethical principles are identified as essential for fostering organizational resilience and sustainability. By cultivating a respectful and inclusive environment, organizations can not only mitigate the risks associated with psychosocial manipulation but also enhance employee well-being, strengthen collective trust, and improve overall effectiveness. JEL: M12, M14, J28, I12