Background and Aim: Gaslighting, as one of the most insidious forms of psychological manipulation, systematically targets an individual’s perception of reality, leading to devastating consequences such as identity collapse, psychological trauma, and epistemic rupture. Despite growing scholarly attention to this phenomenon, the existing literature lacks an integrated, process-based model that depicts the recovery journey of survivors based on their lived experiences. This study aims to fill this gap by designing and validating an integrated model for liberation and identity reconstruction through the systematic synthesis of the lived experiences of gaslighting survivors.

Methodology: This qualitative study employed a meta-synthesis approach. Following the seven-step model of Sandelowski and Barroso, a systematic search was conducted across reputable databases (including Scopus, Web of Science, ProQuest, and PsycINFO). After a rigorous screening and quality appraisal process, [N] qualitative articles that directly investigated the lived experiences of gaslighting survivors were selected for the final analysis. The findings from the selected articles were coded and synthesized using thematic synthesis in MAXQDA software.

Findings: The data analysis resulted in the emergence of four main themes and fifteen sub-themes, which ultimately formed the foundation of the “Integrated Model of Liberation and Identity Reconstruction from Gaslighting” (IRIM-G). This model delineates the recovery journey through three primary, dynamic phases: 1) The Collapse Phase in a Downward Spiral (encompassing the systematic distortion of reality and identity erosion), 2) The Rupture and Awakening Phase (involving a cognitive catalyst, external validation, and reclaiming agency), and 3) The Re-creation Phase in an Upward Cycle (including