In a message dated 9/11/2000 8:50:17 PM Pacific Daylight Time,
[log in to unmask] writes:

<< <<> I've noticed people react negatively to things for a few
reasons:
 >
 > 1) They lack understanding
 > 2) They fear the unknown
 > 3) They 'recognize' a part of themselves they don't like, in
another (the
 > shadow self)

 Is that why you get defensive? ;)>>

  I am particularly allergic to being ridiculed, though, and this will
 raise my defensiveness.
  >>

You forgot
4) They take themselves too seriously.