What Kids Do

Ellsworth Toohey: Mr Roark, we're alone here. Why don't you tell me what you think of me in any words you wish.
Howard Roark: But I don't think of you.
--The Fountainhead

What kids do: Senders call other kids names. Receivers of name calling take it personally. They have their feelings hurts, engage in protests and retaliation, or otherwise act 'offended.'

What adults do: Senders don't call other people names. Receivers of name calling don't take it personally. They walk away and go about their business.

Election season always reminds me that we have many 'grown ups' who have never moved off the playground psychologically.

Ad hominem ad nauseam.