151 - Toxic Workplace Traps: Gaslighting, Isolation, Control Exposed!

Have you ever left work feeling small, confused, or like you’re somehow the problem… but you can’t quite explain why? In this video, I break down the abuse wheel at work — a powerful framework adapted from the Duluth Power and Control Wheel — to help you understand the hidden patterns of toxic leadership, workplace bullying, and psychological control. This is not about obvious shouting or conflict. It is about the subtle behaviours that slowly undermine confidence, silence good people, and create cultures of fear. We’ll explore: ✅ The real psychology behind power and control at work ✅ Why intelligent, capable people often stay in toxic environments ✅ How behaviours like intimidation, isolation, and gaslighting show up in everyday leadership ✅Why this impacts some people more than others If you have ever felt anxious, undermined, or like you are constantly second-guessing yourself at work, this will help you make sense of it. 🎥 If you think you might be experiencing bullying at work, I also have a video on what to do next — practical, grounded steps to help you respond with clarity and confidence. 👋 Hi, I’m Jo Banks—Executive Coach, Leadership Development Trainer & YouTuber. I spent nearly 20 years as an HR professional before establishing my coaching practice 17 years ago. I help people just like you build more fulfilling careers, healthier relationships, and happier lives through down-to-earth psychology and coaching tools. 👍 If you found this video helpful, please give it a like, leave a comment to let me know your thoughts, and share it with anyone who might benefit. Your support really helps the channel grow and reach more people who need this kind of content. 🔔 Subscribe to my channel for more tips on mental health, leadership, relationships, and personal growth. #workplaceabuse #toxicworkculture #gaslightingatwork #psychologicalsafety #traumainformedcoaching #JoBanks #duluth FYI, if you're working with someone who you think has narcissistic traits, I have a FREE factsheet available. To claim yours, visit: https://jobanks.net/narcissism-in-the... TIMESTAMPS 01:08 - Introduction 02:37 - What the Abuse Wheel Means 03:57 - Using Coercison & Threats 05:15 - Using Intimidation 06:02 - Using Emotional Abuse 06:49 - Using Isolation 07:29 - Minimising, Denying, Blaming 08:11 - Using Co-workers 08:48 - Using Employer Privilege 09:29 - Using Economic Abuse 10:09 - Why Organisations Miss This 10:53 - What Healthy Looks Like 11:51 - The Wrap-up 13:35 - What Next? MENTIONED IN THE VIDEO: ❤️ 149 - They Make You Question Reality—Gaslighting in Action:    • 149 - They Make You Question Reality—Gasli...   ❤️ 140 - Being bullied at work? Do this...    • 140 - Being bullied at work? Do this...   OTHER RELATED VIDEOS ❤️ 034 - How To Set Boundaries At Work (And Why You Should):    • 034 - How To Set Boundaries At Work (And W...   ❤️ Narcissism in the Workplace mini-series:    • Narcissism in the Workplace Mini-Series   MY WEBSITE: https://jobanks.net CONTACT ME: https://jobanks.net/contact ONLINE TRAINING: https://what-next.teachable.com FREEBIES: https://linktr.ee/jobanks SHOP: https://jobanks-shop.fourthwall.com/ SOCIAL MEDIA: ❤️ LinkedIn -   / jo-banks-738b4412   ❤️ Instagram -   / jobanks.coach   ❤️ Facebook -   / jobanks.net   ❤️ Twitter -   / jobankscoach   Disclaimer: The information shared on this channel is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. While I aim to provide helpful content, I make no guarantees about the accuracy or completeness of any information presented. Nothing in these videos constitutes legal, medical, financial, or professional advice. Always seek the advice of a qualified professional regarding any personal concerns. Do not delay or avoid seeking professional help because of something you've seen or heard here. Any actions you take based on the content are at your own risk. I am not responsible for any loss or damage resulting from the use of this information. Views expressed by guests or collaborators are their own and do not necessarily reflect mine. Any reference to products or services does not constitute an endorsement unless explicitly stated. All content is the intellectual property of What Next Consultancy (UK) Ltd (also trading as Jo Banks) and may not be copied or reproduced without permission. FTC Legal Disclaimer: Some links in my video descriptions may be affiliate links. This means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through those links—at no extra cost to you. It’s just one more way to support me and my channel, and I truly appreciate it.