The Top 3 Types of Personal Attacks and How to Avoid Them

Personal attacks can be found in many aspects of our lives, whether it’s at work, at home, or even online. They can be hurtful and damaging, and it’s important to be aware of them in order to avoid them and protect ourselves. In this blog post, we will be discussing the top three types of personal attacks and how to avoid them.

Definition of personal attacks

But first, let’s define what a personal attack is. A personal attack is any attack that is directed towards a person’s character, rather than the issue being discussed. This can include insults, name-calling, and other forms of derogatory language. Personal attacks are often used to try and discredit someone’s argument or beliefs, rather than engage in a productive and respectful conversation.

The top 3 types of personal attacks

Ad Hominem attacks

Ad Hominem attacks, also known as “attack the person” attacks, are when someone attacks the person making an argument rather than addressing the argument itself. This can include insults, character assassination, and other forms of derogatory language. Ad Hominem attacks are often used to try and discredit someone’s argument or beliefs, rather than engage in a productive and respectful conversation.

Examples of Ad Hominem attacks include:

“You’re just saying that because you’re a republican/democrat.”
“You can’t possibly understand this issue because you’re too young/old.”
“You’re just saying that because you’re jealous/bitter/angry.”
Tips for avoiding Ad Hominem attacks:

Stay focused on the issue being discussed, rather than attacking the person making the argument.
If you find yourself getting personal, take a step back and refocus on the issue at hand.
Try to understand the other person’s perspective, even if you disagree with it.

Gaslighting

Gaslighting is a form of psychological manipulation in which the manipulator tries to make the victim doubt their own memories, perception, or sanity. This can be done through subtle tactics, such as denying that something happened, trying to convince the victim that they are imagining things, or shifting the blame onto the victim. Gaslighting can be extremely damaging, as it can cause the victim to doubt their own reality and feel confused and isolated.

Examples of gaslighting include:

“You’re just imagining things.”
“That never happened.”
“You’re being paranoid.”
Tips for avoiding gaslighting:

Trust your own memories and perceptions.
Keep track of events and conversations in a journal or with a trusted friend.
Seek support from friends and family, and consider seeking professional help if you feel like you are being gaslighted.

Verbal abuse

Verbal abuse is any form of communication that is intended to hurt, degrade, or control someone. This can include insults, threats, and other forms of derogatory language. Verbal abuse can be extremely damaging, as it can erode a person’s self-esteem and lead to feelings of worthlessness and hopelessness.

Examples of verbal abuse include:

Insults or name-calling
Threats or intimidation
Yelling or screaming

Tips for avoiding verbal abuse and seeking help:

Set boundaries with the person who is abusive and communicate them clearly.
Consider seeking support from friends, family, or a therapist.

If the abuse is severe or ongoing, consider seeking help from a domestic violence hotline or leaving the abusive situation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it’s important to be aware of the top three types of personal attacks and how to avoid them.