Please understand that they wanted your reaction to their disrespect, because then they could use your reaction to paint you as the problem and deflect from their own toxic and bad behaviors. This is a classic tactic used by manipulators and toxic individuals to shift the focus away from their own wrongdoing and onto the reaction of others.

When someone engages in disrespectful or toxic behavior, they may be seeking to provoke a reaction from you. This reaction can then be used to manipulate others, making it seem like you're the one who's overreacting or being unreasonable. By doing so, they can avoid accountability for their own actions and maintain a facade of innocence.

It's essential to recognize this tactic and not fall into the trap. By remaining calm and composed, you can deny them the reaction they're seeking. Instead, focus on addressing the specific behavior that's causing the issue, and set clear boundaries for what you will and won't tolerate.

When dealing with toxic individuals, it's crucial to prioritize your own emotional well-being and safety. This may involve limiting your interactions with them, seeking support from others, or taking steps to protect yourself from their manipulation.

By being aware of this tactic and taking steps to protect yourself, you can avoid getting drawn into their game of manipulation and blame-shifting. Remember, you can't control how others behave, but you can control how you respond to them. By staying calm, setting boundaries, and prioritizing your own needs, you can maintain your emotional well-being and avoid getting caught up in their toxic behavior.