My Adult Child Says I'm Gaslighting Them. What Do I Do?

Send us a messageEpisode 227: My Adult Child Says I'm Gaslighting Them. What Do I Do?When your adult child says you are gaslighting them, it can feel like an accusation against your entire character as a parent.You may immediately want to defend yourself, explain what really happened, or prove that your memory is accurate. But when both people are fighting to establish the “correct” version of the past, the conversation often becomes more painful and more disconnected.In this episode, Tina explains what gaslighting actually means, why the term is sometimes used too broadly, and what your adult child may be trying to communicate underneath the accusation. You will learn how to take their experience seriously without agreeing that you intentionally manipulated them or surrendering your own memory of what happened.This episode will help you move out of shame, fear, and defensiveness so you can respond with greater steadiness and curiosity.You will learn:Why being accused of gaslighting can feel like a threat to your identity as a loving parentThe difference between deliberate gaslighting and two people remembering the same event differentlyWhat your adult child may really mean when they say they feel gaslighted or unheardWhat to say in the moment instead of defending every detail or shutting downHow to acknowledge your adult child’s experience while still holding onto your own perspectiveYou do not have to accept an inaccurate label in order to listen well. You also do not have to prove your child wrong before the relationship can move forward.Two people can love each other deeply and still remember the past differently. What matters most is whether both experiences can be heard without turning the conversation into a battle over who is right.Share this episode with another parent who may be struggling to understand a painful conversation with their adult child.Click Here to download the free guide: 5 Steps to Take Before Trying to Repair the Relationship with Your Adult Child Tina Gosney is the Family Conflict Coach. She works with parents who have families in conflict to help them become the grounded, confident leaders their family needs. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------If you want support putting what you’re learning into practice, come join The Connection Community in Bridge to Connection. This is the perfect spot where you can learn, connect and get targeted help to start moving your relationship with your adult child in a different direction. Set up a Connection Clarity Call with Tina to see if this is a good fit for you: CLICK HERE TO SET UP A CALL---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tina is certified in family relationships and a trauma informed coach.  Visit tinagosney.com for more information on coaching services.