Citation:
Burschel, Maria. 2023.“Genderspecific Manipulation (Gaslighting) through Non-violent Communication, Spirituality and Biologistic Concepts of Mother- and Fatherhood”. in Uses and Abuses of Power in Alternative Spiritualities. Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA.
Abstract:
Abstract: In this workshop the results of a study in Intentional Communities in Germany will be presented that indicate that naturalistic ideas of mother and fatherhood, non-violent communication and certain aspects of spirituality may enable genderspecific narcissistic abuse and gaslighting in families. This is highly relevant because narcissistic behavior and character traits are on the rise in the western world. Especially in Spiritual and Intentional Communities narcissistic abuse, gaslighting and re-traditionalization of gender roles may occur via spirituality, Peace Work and the aim of authenticity. As this sort of abuse is often based on commonly shared beliefs and stereotypes, victims often do not realize the abuse and identify with their abusers. These mechanisms will be explained in detail using examples from Spiritual and Intentional Communities. Ways of detecting it early and avoiding it will be explored.Presenter bio: Dr. Maria Burschel is sociologist and professor for Social Work at IU - International University of Applied Sciences. Her research focuses on family research, separation and divorce, narcissism, and social sustainability and transformation. She has research experience at the German Youth Institute and SOS Childrens Village, and in Intentional Communities in Germany.
Presenter affiliation: IU - International University for Applied Sciences