#United States #Communication #Maryville #PR Ethics #Organizational Gaslighting

Rising Ethical Concerns in Public Relations: The Impact of Organizational Gaslighting

Recent research commissioned by Mary Beth West and executed by The Pulse Business has revealed alarming trends affecting public relations professionals across the U.K. and U.S. This study indicates a notable rise in unethical practices termed "organizational gaslighting" within agency-client interactions. The findings shed light on growing challenges faced by PR leaders when maintaining integrity in communication, especially when pressured by clients to sacrifice transparency for power.

Understanding Organizational Gaslighting

The term "gaslighting" has gained popularity as a reflection of manipulative tactics used by individuals and organizations to maintain control by misleading others. Merriam-Webster recognized it as the word of the year in 2022, highlighting its cultural significance. In the context of public relations, gaslighting manifests through various unethical behaviors that distort the truth, undermining both the PR professionals and their audiences.

Findings from the PR Leaders Survey

Conducted between late May and early June 2025, the survey influenced by responses from 50 PR leaders revealed that more than 50% have noticed an increase in gaslighting behaviors over the past year. Some of the methods reported by these professionals include:

• - Countering: Clients may promote doubt about the expertise of their PR teams.
• - Denying: Organizations pretend no issues exist, irrespective of evidence suggesting otherwise.
• - Diverting/Deflecting: Clients provide false explanations to obscure the reality of situations.
• - Ignoring: Proper advice from PR professionals may be dismissed without consideration.
• - Stereotyping: Broad generalizations are used to confuse or undermine the team’s competence.
• - Trivializing: PR teams' concerns are minimized, often labeled as overreactions.

The survey statistics reveal a concerning dynamic, where a staggering 75% of respondents felt their teams faced varying degrees of gaslighting from clients. Only a minority reported that they had not encountered such issues, emphasizing a crucial need for ethics reforms within the industry.

Implications for PR Ethics

Mary Beth West expressed her concerns regarding the increasing normalization of gaslighting tactics within the PR field. These issues highlight a critical ethical gap that can lead not only to internal conflict but also contribute to a broader culture of distrust in media communications. As PR agencies instruct clients on how to engage in gaslighting under the guise of strategic practice, they risk further tainting the public perception of the industry.

The Road Ahead: Addressing Ethical Challenges

The call for more rigorous, academic explorations into the organizational gaslighting phenomenon is essential. A comprehensive study could not only provide insights into effective strategies for mitigating these issues but also enhance awareness regarding ethical practices among both PR professionals and their clients. More avenues for discussion are needed to shape a future where transparency and honesty are prioritized over manipulative tactics.

In conclusion, this research sparks a vital conversation about the state of public relations ethics amid rising gaslighting practices. Industry leaders must collectively advocate for accountability and integrity to restore trust with both clients and the public.

For further information on this ongoing study and its implications, additional resources can be accessed at marybethwest.com.