Core Insights - The article emphasizes the importance of not responding to malicious comments, suggesting that silence is a more effective psychological defense than retaliation [1][6][7] Group 1: Reasons for Responding to Malice - Individuals often feel compelled to respond to malice as a form of self-protection, activating a "fight or flight" response when hurt [2][3] - The desire for fairness drives many to believe that not responding equates to accepting blame, leading to internalized feelings of inadequacy [2][3] - Responding to malice can consume significant psychological energy, akin to fighting in a quagmire where the more one struggles, the deeper one sinks [3] Group 2: Consequences of Responding to Malice - Engaging with malice can trap individuals in a "self-justification trap," where they inadvertently play by the aggressor's rules [3] - Responses to malice can amplify its spread due to the "negative bias" theory, where negative information is more memorable and impactful [3] Group 3: Strategies for Dealing with Malice - Distinguishing between "facts" and "opinions" is crucial, as malice often stems from personal emotions rather than objective truths [4] - Practicing "not engaging" is a form of psychological boundary-setting, allowing individuals to maintain emotional control [4][5] - Techniques such as "psychological detachment" can help individuals pause and reassess the situation before reacting [4] Group 4: Long-term Benefits of Not Responding - Not responding to malice can lead to greater emotional stability, reducing susceptibility to anger and fostering a peaceful mindset [6] - Relationships may become more relaxed as individuals stop feeling the need to prove themselves, leading to mutual respect [6] - Each instance of not responding strengthens psychological resilience, making individuals less vulnerable to future harm [6]