The behavior you're describing sounds like a form of retaliation or revenge, where a person responds to disrespect or mistreatment by reciprocating those negative actions, regardless of whether the initial offender has changed their behavior.
This type of response can be linked to several concepts in psychology and social behavior, such as:
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Tit for Tat: This strategy in social interactions involves responding to a person's action with a similar action, whether positive or negative. It can foster cooperation but also lead to cycles of retaliation.
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Resentment and Revenge: Some individuals may feel a deep-seated resentment that compels them to seek revenge, even if the instigating party has attempted to make amends.
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Reactive Aggression: This is an emotional response to perceived threats or insults, where an individual lashes out in response to their feelings of being wronged, often without considering the context or any changes in the other person's behavior.
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Lack of Forgiveness: People who struggle to forgive may hold on to past grievances and may react negatively, even if the other person has changed.
These behaviors often stem from underlying feelings of hurt, anger, or a desire for fairness. It’s essential to recognize the potential for negative cycles that can arise from such actions, as they can lead to further conflict rather than resolution.