ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Classic Film 'Gaslight' Gave Psychology the Term 'Gaslighting'

publication · 2026-03-27

The 1944 film 'Gaslight,' starring Ingrid Bergman and Charles Boyer, features a psychological manipulation plot where Boyer's character drives Bergman's character toward insanity. This portrayal was so impactful that psychology adopted the term 'gaslighting' to describe similar manipulative behaviors. The film remains a significant cultural reference for understanding psychological abuse dynamics.

Key facts

  • The film 'Gaslight' was released in 1944
  • Ingrid Bergman and Charles Boyer star in the film
  • The plot involves psychological manipulation driving a character to insanity
  • Psychology adopted the term 'gaslighting' from this film
  • The film is a classic reference for understanding manipulative behavior

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