By Dr. Cara Gardenswartz and Nancy Sweeney, CLC.
The power of an apology resides not only in its words but in the sincerity behind them. Yet, distinguishing a genuine apology from one that masks manipulative tactics, often associated with gaslighting, can be challenging. In this exploration, we delve into the intricacies of discerning the authenticity of apologies, offering insights into key indicators and real-world examples.
1. Ownership and Accountability:
A sincere apology begins with the person acknowledging the harm caused and accepting responsibility for it. Look for language that reflects a genuine acknowledgment of wrongdoing without deflecting blame onto external factors.
Example: "I made a mistake, and I take responsibility for the impact it had on you."
2. Empathy and Understanding:
A genuine apology conveys empathy by demonstrating an........