7. Challenge them on tantrums.
Now this one will really stir the pot. You can usually tell when someone’s lost it, because a verbal (well, cyber verbal) tantrum is punctuated with capitals, exclamation marks, and often a profound lack of grammar, spelling or logic. They just unload on you.
“You are sorry excuse for HUMAN why don’t you do the world a FAVOR and just go incinerate yourself YOU F***IN B***H MORAN!!!!”
Poetic, no? Never let them have the last word after a rant like this. It will only encourage them to use their bullying tactics on some other unsuspecting Facebooker. However, for a number of reasons, it’s crucial that you cultivate an attitude of amusement regarding such a tantrum. First, that will help you avoid untoward spikes in blood pressure. Second, it will prevent you from responding in kind. It is far, far more powerful to exhibit your mild amusement at their loss of control. Even if you feel yourself getting angry, never let them see you sweat. Turn it around on them. “Now, now. Did someone forget their meds this morning?” Remain the always in-charge, indulgently amused adult. You’ll drive ‘em nuts.
Next: potty mouths…
