"Respect" as the Criminal Demands It versus Respect in the Responsible World
A post from Psycology today by Stanton E. Samenow, Ph.D. has the whole story. Here is a part:
"Respect" as the Criminal Demands It versus Respect in the Responsible World
Verbal abuse, bullying, brutal assaults and even homicides occur when a criminal thinks he has been "disrespected." Let's look at what this street term means. The individual with a criminal personality demands that others see him as the hub of the wheel, the center of the universe, around which all else revolves. If others do not confirm this image that he has of himself as a powerful, controlling collosus, the criminal becomes instantly offended. It does not take much for him to perceive that he has been "disrespected."
People with a criminal personality are constantly angry at a world that does not offer them the respect that they believe they are owed. They may not show that they are angry, but the anger simmers within. A look, a word, a voice tone -- virtually anything that does not confirm the criminal's self-image poses a threat. All it takes is the "one thing too much" to set him off. And the victim may not have the slightest comprehension as to what triggered the assault.
Most responsible people understand that respect is earned. They do not demand it from others in order to prop up a fragile ego inflated by pretentions. We respect people who for their accomplishments, their good deeds, noble behavior, and other fine qualities as human beings. Respect is an outcome of responsible behavior. It is earned, not demanded.
