What's the difference between gaslighting and disagreement?

Disagreement: "I remember it differently." Gaslighting: "You're crazy, that never happened" (and repeating it until you doubt yourself). Gaslighting denies objective reality and your sanity. Disagreement respects that you both remember things differently.

Is gaslighting always intentional?

Usually yes. But some anxious or defensive people gaslight without realizing it. What matters is the pattern: Do they gaslighting your experience repeatedly? Can they stop when you point it out? If not, it's intentional abuse.

How do I protect myself from gaslighting?

Keep a journal of facts. Confide in trusted friends. Record conversations if legal. Build your own reality checks. Don't rely on your gaslighter for validation. And recognize that if you're constantly questioning yourself, something's wrong.