An unfortunate property of fields without time translation symmetry.

I found when I went through school, and basically 'in person social network', with trolls, bullies, and the like, that a harsh and swift response is the opposite of victimhood.

Sure, I got kicked out for a few days. But I got a rep that if you bully me, you're going to get a black eye(s) and a broken nose. Now I didn't bully others, but I would defend myself and go all out on someone attacking me. I made sure every one of them regretted it.

Obviously, I dont use that physicality these days, as its unwarranted. But verbally, I will defend myself and "talk back". If you try to throw me under the bus, I'm taking you with me. But I dont throw others under.

Basically its the game theory of tit-for-tat. Works pretty well.