Scott A. Johnson
forensic psychology Psychological abuse Domestic violence Demography Health

Bio

Scott A. Johnson is a dedicated forensic psychologist and consultant based in the United States. Holding a Master's Degree in Psychology and licensed as a psychologist, he has built a reputation as an expert in sexual predator and violent offenses, psychopathy, and training law enforcement and prosecutors nationwide. Operating his own practice at Forensic Consultation, Mr. Johnson has contributed to the field through his research and publications, including his work on the Petito case, 'Gaslighting and the Petito Case: Assessing Risk Factors for Law Enforcement,' which highlights his focus on real-world forensic applications. With numerous papers published both internationally and nationally, he also serves as a reviewer for the Global Journal of Human-Social Science, bringing his deep expertise to the peer-review process. Scott's career reflects a commitment to advancing forensic understanding and supporting justice systems through applied knowledge.

Experience

I work for myself- Forensic Consultation.

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Editors Role

Reviewer

GJCST

2024 -

Research

Gaslighting and the Petito Case: Assessing Risk Factors for Law Enforcement

Article January 23, 2026

Psychological abuse can look like many things. It is the tool for abusers and sex offenders to belittle and control their victim. The term “gaslighting” has been used to describe the techniques and process of psychologically controlling and abusing victims. Gaslighting refers to the more serious and extreme form of psychological force/abuse, commonly used by physical abusers, child molesters, human traffickers, and rapists to confuse their victims into believing that the abuse, assault or rape was the victim’s fault. The perpetrator uses gaslighting to make their victim less credible and appear psychologically unstable. In the same way, the perpetrator makes themselves appear to others as a caring victim of their victim, innocent of any wrongdoing. The recent case of Gabby Petito in Florida (2021) highlights the need for law enforcement and the public to gain an understanding of gaslighting and a better understanding of abuse in general.