Reddit Defense

A tactic where someone intentionally provokes, annoys, or emotionally baits another person—often through smug debate, passive-aggressive remarks, or “just asking questions”—until that person snaps. The instigator then plays the victim, using the outburst to discredit or shame the person they pushed too far.

Basically: you poke the bear until it bites you, then act shocked and sue the bear.
“He kept correcting her every sentence and questioning her tone. When she finally yelled, he said she was 'emotionally unstable.' Classic Reddit Defense.”

“She baited him into a rant and recorded just the angry part to make it look like he was unhinged. Straight-up Reddit Defense move.”
by grimguy66 June 05, 2025
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