From Self-Doubt to Self-Recovery: The Psychological Consequences of Gaslighting in Paula Hawkins’s Novels

Abstract

The research paper gives the gist of the psychological consequences of gaslighting in Paula Hawkins' novels “The Girl on the Train” (2015) and “Into the Water” (2017). It argues that Hawkins does not portray gaslighting merely as a series of lies or disagreements; in her fiction, manipulation gradually erodes an individual's confidence in their own memory, perception, judgment, and identity. Kate Abramson’s philosophical discussion on gaslighting is useful for understanding the harm inflicted on a victim's own judgment. Paige L. Sweet’s sociological perspective explains how unequal gender relations and social norms can make it easy to discredit a woman. Miranda Fricker’s concept of epistemic injustice—specifically testimonial injustice—provides a framework for understanding the unequal distribution of credibility. Rachel McKinnon links gaslighting to epistemic injustice. Judith Herman’s model of trauma and recovery is employed here as a framework for literary interpretation. The study demonstrates that psychological manipulation operates through both personal relationships and broader social narratives. Hawkins also keeps readers in a state of uncertainty through fragmented chronology, shifting perspectives, withheld information, and delayed revelations. In conclusion, recovery is not merely about uncovering a hidden fact; it involves rebuilding trust in one’s own capacity to understand, verifying memories against evidence, securing reliable support, and reclaiming the right to narrate one’s own experience.