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.