Why does being rude cause me to experience anxiety symptoms?

[lovelyautumtrees]

I noticed anytime I say something mean I get anxiety symptoms like I’m afraid of the person’s response. Truthfully I’m not afraid, but my body is signaling to my brain that I’m afraid. I’ve seen others say very cruel stuff without flinching. I don’t get it. I’m not looking to be a mean person, but I’m just curious why this is the case.

[HollyK21]

The definition of being rude is to be offensively impolite, and unless there’s some real grounds to behave that way, then why would you want to be that person on purpose? It’s no surprise that confrontational behavior gives you anxiety. There’s a difference between being rude and simply standing up for yourself, not allowing others to disrespect or treat you like a doormat. I’d much rather go that route than act out of character with insolence.

[lovelyautumtrees]

The reason I was contemplating on this attitude is because I notice that the people who I’m around, including family members, have a very sarcastic personality, and the only way they stop is when I’m defensive.

[HollyK21]

You have every right to defend yourself, and it’s completely appropriate to stand up for yourself. But you want to do it in a way that can sit right with you, morally. Being rude and disrespectful isn’t always the answer. You can be transparent, assertive, and confident.

[Guy13]

That’s your conscious and fear or flight working together. We know that people do not handle unflattering information well. So, when we are thinking to say it or processing it in our heads, sometimes the body reacts.
—It’s different when we hear ourselves doing it rather than spectating.