This is quite common in conflicts. Usually, what the person is showing in this behavior is how they actually feel about themselves. It is just too hard for them to admit it at that time. People who handle conflict with anger and abusiveness have a history of being treated that way also, and have developed that style for themselves. It is a learned response to dealing with conflict, and with help and time, it can be changed if they truly have a desire to alter their old behaviors.
Guilt can really mess up ones emotional and business life if a person allows it to do so.
4. Making Excuses. Excuses were common ways we used in childhood when we did something wrong and were afraid of taking responsibility for it. Many of us have used excuses throughout our lives to explain everything from being late to forgetting important dates to severe business or personal problems. When a person quits making excuses and decides to accept their part of a problem, the path to a resolution or to improving the situation is then much easier. Bringing Up The Past.