> I had to learn this technique when I was living with friends that had undiagnosed and untreated personality disorders. Remaining calm while they're blowing up

> I had to learn this technique when I was living with friends that had undiagnosed and untreated personality disorders. Remaining calm while they're blowing up simply didn't work, and led them to think I was patronizing them. I've definitely had this experience. I have at least one friend who never learned to control her displays of anger at all, and who regards failing to be as angry as her as proof that you're not listening or taking her seriously. The weird result is that dealing with her displays calmly just convinces her you're a patronizing ass.