Gaslighting a profession: on moral purpose, teacher knowledge and the role of trust
FORUM - Print ISSN 1474-7685 - Online ISSN 2047-7171
Volume 68 Number 2 (2026)
Gaslighting a profession: on moral purpose, teacher knowledge and the role of trust
Nicole Mockler pages 13‑22
DOI: 10.3898/forum.2026.68.2.03
Abstract
This paper explores the demoralisation of teachers caused by systemic ‘gaslighting’ that undermines their professional knowledge and moral purpose. Drawing on historical and contemporary examples, Mockler argues that education policy and public discourse often devalue teachers’ expertise, framing their work as mere content delivery and promoting standardised, externally produced solutions. The author critiques the rise of ‘evidence-based’ practices that sideline professional judgement, warning that such trends erode trust and creativity in teaching. Ultimately, Mockler calls for renewed societal trust in teachers, recognising the complexity, humanity and moral responsibility at the heart of the profession.
To cite this article
Nicole Mockler (2026) Gaslighting a profession: on moral purpose, teacher knowledge and the role of trust, FORUM, 68(2), 13-22 . https://doi.org/10.3898/forum.2026.68.2.03