Deception & Gaslighting
What does interpersonal deception theory explain?
How deception operates as an act, how it is detected, and how people respond to it
What are the three types of jealousy?
Cognitive, emotional, and behavioral jealousy.
What is verbal aggression?
Attacking someone’s self-concept through insults or humiliation.
What is one benefit of social media?
Increased social connectivity and access to information.
What does perception checking involve?
Describing behavior, offering two interpretations, and seeking clarification.
What are the two main types of deception?
Deception by omission (concealment) and deception by commission (lying)
What positive behavior can jealousy sometimes motivate?
Taking steps to improve a relationship (such as spending more quality time).
What is intimate partner violence (IPV)?
Physical, emotional, psychological, or sexual harm inflicted by a partner.
What is one dark side effect of social media?
Increased anxiety, depression, or cyberbullying.
What communication behavior can help maintain healthy boundaries?
Assertiveness.
What is gaslighting?
A manipulative form of communication where one person makes another doubt their perceptions, memory, or sanity.
What are “secret tests”?
Direct or indirect strategies to learn about a relationship’s status or a partner’s feelings.
What percentage of adults report experiencing some form of aggressive behavior from a partner?
Almost 49%.
What is catfishing?
Creating a false online identity to deceive others.
How can we “lighten” the dark side of communication?
By being mindful, using open dialogue, and respecting boundaries.
What are signs of a sociopath’s communication behaviors?
Intense eye contact, charm, blaming others, compulsive lying, and lack of empathy.
What is an example of a third-party secret test?
Asking a friend or relative how your partner feels about you.
What’s a sign of emotional abuse?
Constant jealousy, threats, or name-calling.
What are two signs you might be getting catfished?
Refusal to video chat and stories that seem too good to be true.
What’s the relationship between the light and dark sides of communication?
They are interwoven—some “dark” acts (like white lies) can have positive outcomes.
What communication strategy can help resist gaslighting?
Use perception checking, assertiveness, and seek outside feedback.
What’s one healthy communication response to secret tests?
Respond assertively and use perception checking to clarify motives.
Name one national resource for IPV support.
The National Domestic Violence Hotline: 800-799-7233.
Name one strategy to stay safe online.
Set time limits, block offensive content, and avoid posting harmful material.
What is the key takeaway of the DARK SIDE OF COMMUNICATION?
Awareness of dark communication helps prevent harm and build healthier relationships.